Capraita nigrosignata
This record describes Capraita nigrosignata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Type Locality: Esperanza Ranch, Brownsville, Cameron Co., TX
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Capraita
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Host plant grows in mesic areas
Geographic Range
e. half of TX to w.LA / e. Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly Mar-Nov
Diet and Behavior
Diet: germander spp. - Teucrium canadense , Teucrium cubense (Lamiaceae) ( 3 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Capraita nigrosignata. 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 Capraita nigrosignata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Capraita nigrosignata
What is Capraita nigrosignata?
Capraita nigrosignata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Capraita nigrosignata?
5 mm (Type)
Where is Capraita nigrosignata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Host plant grows in mesic areas |
| Range | e. half of TX to w.LA / e. Mex. - Map |
What does Capraita nigrosignata eat?
The diet of the Capraita nigrosignata includes germander spp. - Teucrium canadense , Teucrium cubense (Lamiaceae) ( 3 ).
When is Capraita nigrosignata active?
Capraita nigrosignata: seasonal activity - mostly Mar-Nov.