Capraita quercata
This record describes Capraita quercata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Head and pronotum reddish, unspotted; elytra distinctly punctured, blackish (margin may be narrowly lighter, but not as pale as pronotum) The species has for long been misinterpreted: Oedionychis quercata sensu Horn et auct., non Fabricius = Capraita circumdata Randall
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
Geographic Range
coastal se US states (LA-FL-MD)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Capraita quercata. 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 quercata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Capraita quercata
What is Capraita quercata?
Capraita quercata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Capraita quercata?
4 - 5 mm
How do you identify Capraita quercata?
Head and pronotum reddish, unspotted; elytra distinctly punctured, blackish (margin may be narrowly lighter, but not as pale as pronotum)
Where is Capraita quercata found?
Range: coastal se US states (LA-FL-MD)