Brachiacantha quadrillum
This record describes Brachiacantha quadrillum (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's figures Most examples of B. quadrillum can be recognized by the elytral color pattern because the presence of a single apical spot on the elytron is a character not shared by other members of the group. Those specimens having additional maculation can still be recognized as B. quadrillum most of the time because the additional maculation is obscure and tentative in appearance. - Gordon, p. 570. Type locality: New Braunfels, Texas. Coll. by Lindheimer.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scymninae
- Tribe
- Scymnini
- Genus
- Brachiacantha (Spurleg Lady Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
c. OK to s. TX - Map (dots) (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Brachiacantha quadrillum LeConte 1858
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brachiacantha quadrillum. 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 Brachiacantha quadrillum (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Abigail Parker; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz | Contributed by Abigail Parker; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachiacantha quadrillum
What is Brachiacantha quadrillum?
Brachiacantha quadrillum is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Brachiacantha quadrillum?
Length 3.8 to 4.75
How do you identify Brachiacantha quadrillum?
Gordon's figures Most examples of B. quadrillum can be recognized by the elytral color pattern because the presence of a single apical spot on the elytron is a character not shared by other members of the group. Those specimens having additional maculation can still be recognized as B. quadrillum most of the time because the additional maculation is obscure and tentative in appearance. - Gordon, p.
Where is Brachiacantha quadrillum found?
Range: c. OK to s. TX - Map (dots) (BG data)