Capraita scalaris
This record describes Capraita scalaris (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
pale, with the thorax having acute anterior angles and broadly reflexed sides; elytra pitch-black and finely punctate, broader at the base towards the scutellum, with a trilobed lateral margin and two pale spots on the disc of each, and the suture narrowly pale; legs pale. uncommon
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
e. NA (e.TX-n.FL-QC-KS) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) ( 6 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Capraita scalaris (F.E. Melsheimer 1847)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Capraita 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 Capraita scalaris (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by ADeczynski; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Capraita scalaris
What is Capraita scalaris?
Capraita scalaris is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Capraita scalaris?
4.7-5.6 mm
How do you identify Capraita scalaris?
pale, with the thorax having acute anterior angles and broadly reflexed sides; elytra pitch-black and finely punctate, broader at the base towards the scutellum, with a trilobed lateral margin and two pale spots on the disc of each, and the suture narrowly pale; legs pale.
Where is Capraita scalaris found?
Range: e. NA (e.TX-n.FL-QC-KS) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) ( 6 )