Hackberry Engraver
Scolytus muticus
This record describes Scolytus muticus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scolytinae
- Tribe
- Scolytini
- Genus
- Scolytus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e NA (QC-FL to ON-MN-TX) - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Primary hosts: Hackberry ( Celtis , Ulmaceae)
Life History
Egg galleries are similar to the hickory bark beetle ( Scolytus quadrispinosus ). The larvae feed between the bark and wood, later burrowing into the wood. Pupation occurs just beneath the surface of the wood. ( 4 ) There are 2 generations per year ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Scolytus muticus Say 1824
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Scolytus muticus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Hackberry Engraver (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Guy A. Hanley; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Mike Quinn , v belov , Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Hackberry Engraver
How big is Hackberry Engraver?
2.2-5.3 mm
Where is Hackberry Engraver found?
Range: e NA (QC-FL to ON-MN-TX) - Map
What does Hackberry Engraver eat?
The diet of the Hackberry Engraver includes Primary hosts: Hackberry ( Celtis , Ulmaceae).
What is the life cycle of a Hackberry Engraver?
Egg galleries are similar to the hickory bark beetle ( Scolytus quadrispinosus ). The larvae feed between the bark and wood, later burrowing into the wood. Pupation occurs just beneath the surface of the wood. ( 4 ) There are 2 generations per year ( 4 )