Cissidae

Cissidae is a family of insects belonging to the order Coleoptera, commonly known as bark beetles. These small beetles are characterized by their association with trees, particularly their larvae, which bore into the bark and wood to feed on fungi or plant tissues. The family is diverse, with numerous genera and species found worldwide, often in forested regions.

Adult cissids are typically small, often less than 5 millimeters in length, and exhibit a range of coloration from brown to black. Their body shape is generally cylindrical or oval. Many species are associated with specific tree species, and their life cycles are closely tied to the health and condition of their host trees. Some cissids are considered pests, as their feeding can weaken or kill trees, while others play a role in decomposition and nutrient cycling within forest ecosystems.

Reproduction in cissids involves the female laying eggs within the galleries bored by the adults. The larvae then hatch and continue to feed, creating their own tunnels. The life cycle can vary in duration depending on the species and environmental conditions. Due to their ecological importance and potential impact on forestry, cissids have been the subject of scientific study in entomology and forest pathology.