All three species of beetles are similar in appearance through all their life stages. Main differences between the species are in size, tree species attacked, and timing of parts of the life cycle. Eggs are laid in individual niches or elongate grooves on alternate sides of the egg gallery. Head is pale tan to pale rusty. Pupae have legs and maturing wings that are visible.
Mature adults are mostly all black or have rusty colored wing covers.
Adults are approximately 6 mm long. In general, the distribution of each species of beetle follows the distribution of its primary host. The life cycles of the beetles are similar with some variation in timing and effect. Also, while the mode of action in killing individual trees is the same for all three species, affected trees vary in their display of symptoms. It is necessary to know the differences when identifying the causal agent, establishing where the infestation is in its cycle, and for selecting the most appropriate treatment prescription.