Brachiacantha ursina
This record describes Brachiacantha ursina (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's Figures 5 spots on each elytron; elyrta finely punctured, slightly dullж body more elongated than in most congeners. The combination of large size and elongate body will separate ursina from other eastern congeners of similar color pattern the most commonly collected eastern Brachiacantha ; color pattern is remarkably uniform
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
Habitat
Often on milkweed ( Asclepias ) ( 4 )
Geographic Range
NB‒SK to SC + 1 LA record - Map (shaded) , mostly ne US
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Brachiacantha ursina ( Fabricius 1787)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brachiacantha ursina. 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 ursina (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joel Kits; Additional contributions by cotinis , Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn , v belov , James Bailey , Abigail Parker
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachiacantha ursina
What is Brachiacantha ursina?
Brachiacantha ursina is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Brachiacantha ursina?
3.0‒4.0 mm
How do you identify Brachiacantha ursina?
Gordon's Figures 5 spots on each elytron; elyrta finely punctured, slightly dullж body more elongated than in most congeners. The combination of large size and elongate body will separate ursina from other eastern congeners of similar color pattern
Where is Brachiacantha ursina found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Often on milkweed ( Asclepias ) ( 4 ) |
| Range | NB‒SK to SC + 1 LA record - Map (shaded) , mostly ne US |