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Ten-lined June beetle

The Ten-lined June Beetle, with its striking zebra-like stripes, is a nocturnal navigator of North American forests. Males buzz loudly in pursuit of mates, adding a unique soundtrack to summer nights. This beetle plays a role in forest ecosystems, contributing to the decomposition of organic matter.

2-4 years
Lifespan
Length: 2 - 4 cm
Size
Brown, Red, Black
Color
Characteristics
Polyphylla decemlineata, commonly known as the Ten-lined June Beetle, is found in the western United States and parts of Canada. It inhabits coniferous forests and is known for its distinctive striped wing covers. The beetle is nocturnal, and males are known for their noisy flight patterns when searching for females.
Distribution Range of the Ten-lined June beetle
Polyphylla decemlineata, commonly known as the Ten-lined June beetle, is native to North America. It is predominantly found in the western regions of the United States, including states like California, Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada. It also extends into parts of southwestern Canada.
Ten-lined June beetle's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Ten-lined June beetle typically inhabits areas with sandy soils, which are conducive to its life cycle needs, particularly for the larvae which develop underground. Its preferred environments include coniferous and mixed forests, where the soil composition supports its burrowing lifestyle.
Ecological Niche
Polyphylla decemlineata occupies a niche as both a herbivore and decomposer. The adult beetles primarily feed on the foliage of trees and shrubs, while the larvae feed on the roots of grasses and other plants. This dual role affects soil and plant health, contributing to ecosystem dynamics by recycling nutrients.