Ablechrus texensis
This record describes Ablechrus texensis (species). Recorded family: Melyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
back of head piceotestaceous or dark reddish-brown in color Holotype, female, Hidalgo Co., Texas. III-26-54. D. J. and J. N. Knull, collectors. One female paratype, same data, except collected V-28-51.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cleroidea
- Family
- Melyridae (Soft-winged Flower Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Malachiinae
- Tribe
- Malachiini
- Genus
- Ablechrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
6 spmns collected at Laguna Atascosa NWR, mostly via beating ( 3 )
Geographic Range
southmost TX (Hidalgo and Cameron Co.)
Seasonal Activity
Mar-May (based on a limited number of records)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
one spmn coll'ed on lime pricklyash ( Zanthoxylum fagara , Rutaceae) (BG data)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ablechrus texensis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Ablechrus texensis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Ablechrus texensis
What is Ablechrus texensis?
Ablechrus texensis is a species in the family Melyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ablechrus texensis?
1.1 mm (two female types)
How do you identify Ablechrus texensis?
back of head piceotestaceous or dark reddish-brown in color
Where is Ablechrus texensis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | 6 spmns collected at Laguna Atascosa NWR, mostly via beating ( 3 ) |
| Range | southmost TX (Hidalgo and Cameron Co.) |
When is Ablechrus texensis active?
Ablechrus texensis: seasonal activity - Mar-May (based on a limited number of records).
What is the life cycle of a Ablechrus texensis?
one spmn coll'ed on lime pricklyash ( Zanthoxylum fagara , Rutaceae) (BG data)