Arawana scapularis
This record describes Arawana scapularis (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytron bluish or greenish black with large or small red spot on humeral angle, smaller red or orange spot at apex, pale areas usually narrowly connected along lateral margin The first U.S. record of A. scapularis was based on specimens collected by H. A. Wenzel in the Huachucha Mountains, Arizona (Leng 1912). It's unclear why it was omitted from Leng's 1920 catalog
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chilocorinae
- Genus
- Arawana
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se AZ to n.NM / Mex. to C. Amer. - Map
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Arawana scapularis. 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 Arawana scapularis (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Arawana scapularis
What is Arawana scapularis?
Arawana scapularis is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Arawana scapularis?
Length 3.5 to 4.3 mm
How do you identify Arawana scapularis?
Elytron bluish or greenish black with large or small red spot on humeral angle, smaller red or orange spot at apex, pale areas usually narrowly connected along lateral margin
Where is Arawana scapularis found?
Range: se AZ to n.NM / Mex. to C. Amer. - Map