Cryptocephalus arizonensis
This record describes Cryptocephalus arizonensis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytra dark, shining metallic green or blue, epipleuron yellow to (more often) dark reddish [cite:212163] Type Locality: Pinal Mts., Cochise Co., AZ
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cryptocephalinae
- Tribe
- Cryptocephalini
- Genus
- Cryptocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ to c. TX - Map , most records from AZ or c.TX
Diet and Behavior
Diet: mostly on oaks ( Quercus spp., Fagaceae) ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cryptocephalus arizonensis Schaeffer 1904
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptocephalus arizonensis. 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 Cryptocephalus arizonensis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov , Edward Ruden
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptocephalus arizonensis
What is Cryptocephalus arizonensis?
Cryptocephalus arizonensis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptocephalus arizonensis?
4.2-5.4 mm
How do you identify Cryptocephalus arizonensis?
Elytra dark, shining metallic green or blue, epipleuron yellow to (more often) dark reddish [cite:212163]
Where is Cryptocephalus arizonensis found?
Range: AZ to c. TX - Map , most records from AZ or c.TX
What does Cryptocephalus arizonensis eat?
The diet of the Cryptocephalus arizonensis includes mostly on oaks ( Quercus spp., Fagaceae) ( 4 ).