Brachys ovatus
This record describes Brachys ovatus (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Larger than some other commonly found members of this genus ( aerosus, aeruginosus ). Last abdominal sternite emarginate and fimbriate in female, rounded and not pubescent in male. Dorsally, the white-margined band of bronze pubescence before the apex of the elytra and longitudinal rows of bronze setae in the basal half of the elytra are usually sufficient for distinguishing this species in Missouri. ( MacRae 2009 )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Buprestoidea
- Family
- Buprestidae (Metallic Wood-boring Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Agrilinae
- Tribe
- Tracheini
- Genus
- Brachys
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Deciduous forests; associated with oaks
Geographic Range
e NA to Rockies (AZ-FL-QC-MT) / Mex.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: larvae mine in oak leaves
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brachys ovatus. 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 Brachys ovatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachys ovatus
What is Brachys ovatus?
Brachys ovatus is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Brachys ovatus?
5-7 mm
How do you identify Brachys ovatus?
Larger than some other commonly found members of this genus ( aerosus, aeruginosus ). Last abdominal sternite emarginate and fimbriate in female, rounded and not pubescent in male. Dorsally, the white-margined band of bronze pubescence before the apex of the elytra and longitudinal rows of bronze setae in the basal half of the elytra are usually sufficient for distinguishing this species in Missouri. ( MacRae 2009 )
Where is Brachys ovatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Deciduous forests; associated with oaks |
| Range | e NA to Rockies (AZ-FL-QC-MT) / Mex. |
What does Brachys ovatus eat?
The diet of the Brachys ovatus includes larvae mine in oak leaves.