Caplothorax melanopterus
This record describes Caplothorax melanopterus (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
https://site.caes.uga.edu/carpophiline-id/caplothorax-melanopterus-erichson-1843/
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Nitidulidae (Sap-feeding Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Carpophilinae
- Genus
- Caplothorax
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA, Calif. (QC-FL to ON-IL-TX); CA; Mexico - Map , mostly e. US
Seasonal Activity
mostly May-July (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: host: Yucca ; larvae mine base of calyx and corolla ( 3 )
Life History
pupation in soil; adults emerge within weeks but remain in earthen pupal cells until following spring ( 3 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Caplothorax melanopterus. 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 Caplothorax melanopterus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by john and jane balaban , Beatriz Moisset , Mike Quinn , ceiseman , v belov , mfdigiro
Frequently Asked Questions About Caplothorax melanopterus
What is Caplothorax melanopterus?
Caplothorax melanopterus is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Caplothorax melanopterus?
3.2-4.5 mm
How do you identify Caplothorax melanopterus?
https://site.caes.uga.edu/carpophiline-id/caplothorax-melanopterus-erichson-1843/
Where is Caplothorax melanopterus found?
Range: e. NA, Calif. (QC-FL to ON-IL-TX); CA; Mexico - Map , mostly e. US
What does Caplothorax melanopterus eat?
The diet of the Caplothorax melanopterus includes host: Yucca ; larvae mine base of calyx and corolla ( 3 ).
When is Caplothorax melanopterus active?
Caplothorax melanopterus: seasonal activity - mostly May-July (BG data).
What is the life cycle of a Caplothorax melanopterus?
pupation in soil; adults emerge within weeks but remain in earthen pupal cells until following spring ( 3 )