Hylastes ater

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Hylastes ater is a species of insect in the Insecta class. It is found in habitats across the world.

Description

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Distribution and habitat

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Behavior

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Diet

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Reproduction

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Conservation status

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See also

• List of insects
• Entomology

External links

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Hylastes ater is a species of beetle in the family Curculionidae. Commonly known as the black pine bark beetle, it is a significant pest of pine trees, particularly in Europe. This beetle primarily infests weakened or stressed pine trees, causing damage to the bark and potentially leading to tree mortality.

Description

Adult Hylastes ater beetles are small, measuring around 3 to 4 millimeters in length. They are dark brown to black in color, with a cylindrical body shape typical of weevils. The larvae of this species are white, legless grubs that feed on the inner bark of pine trees.

Distribution

Hylastes ater is native to Europe and can be found in various countries across the continent. It is particularly prevalent in pine forests, where it can cause significant damage to commercially important tree species.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Hylastes ater typically involves multiple stages. Adult beetles lay eggs in the crevices of pine bark, and the larvae hatch and feed on the inner bark tissues. As they mature, the larvae pupate within the bark before emerging as adult beetles. This cycle can repeat multiple times in a single season, leading to increased damage to host trees.

Management

Effective management of Hylastes ater infestations often involves a combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical control methods. Practices such as maintaining tree health, removing infested trees, and applying insecticides can help mitigate the impact of these beetles on pine forests.