Elm Calligrapha
Calligrapha scalaris
This record describes Calligrapha scalaris (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
has become less common due to its main host, the American Elm , being devastated by Dutch Elm Disease
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chrysomelinae
- Tribe
- Chrysomelini
- Genus
- Calligrapha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA to c. TX - Map (QC-GA to MB-TX) to Mexico
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Host: elms ( Ulmus , Ulmaceae) ( 3 )
Life History
Some populations are parthenogenetic ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: scalaris ~ 'with ladder pattern'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Calligrapha scalaris. 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 Elm Calligrapha (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Hannah Nendick-Mason; Additional contributions by Stephen_WV , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Elm Calligrapha
What is Elm Calligrapha?
Elm Calligrapha (Calligrapha scalaris) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Elm Calligrapha?
7.5-9.5 mm
Where is Elm Calligrapha found?
Range: e. NA to c. TX - Map (QC-GA to MB-TX) to Mexico
What does Elm Calligrapha eat?
The diet of the Elm Calligrapha includes Host: elms ( Ulmus , Ulmaceae) ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Elm Calligrapha?
Some populations are parthenogenetic ( 4 )