Characteristics of Attack of Coastal Timbers by Pselactus spadix (Herbst) (Col.: Curc.: Cossoninae) and an Investigation of its Life History
Summary Pselactus spadix attack of marine timbers was characterised by circular emergence holes 1.48±0.05 mm in diameter and adult tunnels (1.49±0.34 mm) breaking through the wood surface. Larval tunnels measured 0.407–1.892 mm in diameter, initiated from adult tunnels and increased in diameter away from the adult tunnel terminating in frass free pupal chambers (1.6±0.3 mm × 3.5±0.7 mm). Observations of larval tunnel locations indicated oviposition occurred inside the adult tunnels. P. spadix life history was investigated in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) heartwood at 22±2 °C and 99±1% r.h. Mean adult longevity was 11.5±6.5 months, with mean post-mating longevity for males (11.7±2.9 months) significantly longer than for females (6.3±1.1 months). Adults of at least 2–3 months old were found mating in galleries, which, with observations of the larval tunnel pattern, indicated P. spadix can complete its life cycle without emerging from wood. Five larval instars were identified by measurement of 1722 head capsule widths and application of Dyar's law. Mean development time from 2nd instar to adult emergence was 70.5±6.9 weeks and pupation took 14.6±5.8 days. Development from 2nd instar to reproductive adult took between 17–20 months, with life cycle approximating 24 months at 22±2 °C and 99±1%