Chauliognathus transversus
This record describes Chauliognathus transversus (species). Recorded family: Cantharidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Pronotum | Pronotum transversely subquadrate, with or without two oblique black spots, one on each lateral half but nearer the middle. |
| Elytra | Elytra subulate, each with a black spot at apical third, not attaining margins. |
| Legs | Legs black with the basal ¾ of femora orange. |
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Cantharidae (Soldier Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chauliognathinae
- Tribe
- Chauliognathini
- Genus
- Chauliognathus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w. TX / nc. Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
asso. w/ var. Asteraceae (BG & iNat data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Chauliognathus transversus Fender 1964
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Chauliognathus transversus. 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 Chauliognathus transversus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov , Hadley Luker
Frequently Asked Questions About Chauliognathus transversus
What is Chauliognathus transversus?
Chauliognathus transversus is a species in the family Cantharidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Chauliognathus transversus?
9.5‒11mm
How do you identify Chauliognathus transversus?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Pronotum | Pronotum transversely subquadrate, with or without two oblique black spots, one on each lateral half but nearer the middle. |
| Elytra | Elytra subulate, each with a black spot at apical third, not attaining margins. |
| Legs | Legs black with the basal ¾ of femora orange. |
Where is Chauliognathus transversus found?
Range: w. TX / nc. Mex. - Map
What is the life cycle of a Chauliognathus transversus?
asso. w/ var. Asteraceae (BG & iNat data)