Pseudohylesinus spp. (Scolytidae)

a secondary bark beetle

Adults:

Unlike Scolytus wing covers are densely covered with scales giving a dull appearance instead of a bare and shiny look as in Scolytus. Outline is nearly oval without the "sawed off" rear end. Length is from 2.2 to 3.0 mm.

Larvae:

Typical scolytid larvae.

Damage:

Often two or more species in one tree. Egg galleries similar to Scolytus but the sapwood is only lightly scored. See examples of damage by: Pseudohylesinus nebulosus (Douglas-fir) P. sericeus (Pacific silver fir) P. tsugae (western hemlock) P. nebulosus attacks the upper thinner barked areas of Douglas-fir while the Douglas-fir beetle attacks the lower bole.

Principal Hosts:

Abies spp., Douglas-fir, western hemlock, Pinus spp. and Picea spp.

Economic Importance:

Usually attack dying, dead, or downed trees, but at least two species are recorded as destructive tree killers.

References and Links:

FC: 370.

See JP17.