Conoecus ovipennis
This record describes Conoecus ovipennis (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Pimeliinae
- Tribe
- Epitragini
- Genus
- Conoecus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
common just about anywhere you find sand (in eastern 2/3 of Texas) (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2013)
Geographic Range
coastal plains of TX to sw LA - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Mar-Oct
Diet and Behavior
Life History
they like Onagraceae on sand (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2013)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Conoecus ovipennis Horn 1885
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Conoecus ovipennis. 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 Conoecus ovipennis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Conoecus ovipennis
Where is Conoecus ovipennis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | common just about anywhere you find sand (in eastern 2/3 of Texas) (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2013) |
| Range | coastal plains of TX to sw LA - Map |
When is Conoecus ovipennis active?
Conoecus ovipennis: seasonal activity - mostly: Mar-Oct.
What is the life cycle of a Conoecus ovipennis?
they like Onagraceae on sand (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2013)
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