Scolytinae
Pronunciation: [Sko⋅li·TIE⋅knee]
Common Name: Bark Beetles; Ambrosia Beetles
Description: Scolytids represent an important subfamily of Curculionidae (weevils). They are tiny insects with hard, cylindrical bodies, clubbed antennae, and a downward pointing head that is mostly hidden beneath the pronotum. They excavate tunnels under the bark of dead or dying trees where they cultivate fungal gardens that provide food as well as a nursery environment for their eggs and larvae.
Spot ID Key Characters:
- Antennae clubbed and elbowed
- Cylindrical body shape
- Head pointed downward and hidden beneath pronotum
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Order: Coleoptera
