Argopistes scyrtoides
This record describes Argopistes scyrtoides (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
It is not uncommon in the salt marshes south of Vero Beach in Indian River Co., S of Vero Beach, sweeping, 16-VII-1975; 28 VII-1975; 7-XI-1975; 19-111-1976, MCT [FSCA].
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Argopistes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
salt marshes ( 4 )
Geographic Range
endemic to c. coastal FL (Brevard, Dade, Flagler, Indian River Cos.) - Map , Flagler Co. is the northernmost record
Seasonal Activity
Adults apparently occur year round if its host plant retains leaves ( 6 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Larvae mine leaves of Forestiera spp. (Oleaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Argopistes scyrtoides LeConte 1878
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Argopistes scyrtoides. 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 Argopistes scyrtoides (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Argopistes scyrtoides
What is Argopistes scyrtoides?
Argopistes scyrtoides is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Argopistes scyrtoides?
3.4 mm
Where is Argopistes scyrtoides found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | salt marshes ( 4 ) |
| Range | endemic to c. coastal FL (Brevard, Dade, Flagler, Indian River Cos.) - Map , Flagler Co. is the northernmost record |
What does Argopistes scyrtoides eat?
The diet of the Argopistes scyrtoides includes Larvae mine leaves of Forestiera spp. (Oleaceae).
When is Argopistes scyrtoides active?
Argopistes scyrtoides: seasonal activity - Adults apparently occur year round if its host plant retains leaves ( 6 ).