Cryptocephalus downiei
This record describes Cryptocephalus downiei (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The stout body form, highly polished and weakly punctate dorsal surface as well as the unique color pattern will readily separate this species from all other Cryptocephalus found north of Mexico. (Riley & Gilbert 1999) PARATYPE Texas considers this sp. a SGCN ( 4 )
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
Kenedy (3 specimens) and San Patricio (1 specimen) counties s. TX - Map (Riley & Gilbert 1999) , + Cameron Co. (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2015) A few undetermined species seen from Mexico and Central America share the smooth surface, stout body, close eyes, and the sharply contrasting color pattern. (Riley & Gilbert 1999)
Seasonal Activity
April 7 through May 6 based on 4 specimens collected in 1961, 1978, and 1980 (Riley & Gilbert 1999)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Specific plant associations remain unknown (Riley & Gilbert 1999). ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cryptocephalus downiei E. Riley & Gilbert
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptocephalus downiei. 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 downiei (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptocephalus downiei
What is Cryptocephalus downiei?
Cryptocephalus downiei is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Cryptocephalus downiei?
The stout body form, highly polished and weakly punctate dorsal surface as well as the unique color pattern will readily separate this species from all other Cryptocephalus found north of Mexico. (Riley & Gilbert 1999) PARATYPE
Where is Cryptocephalus downiei found?
Range: Kenedy (3 specimens) and San Patricio (1 specimen) counties s. TX - Map (Riley & Gilbert 1999) , + Cameron Co. (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2015) A few undetermined species seen from Mexico and Central America share the smooth surface, stout body, close eyes, and the sharply contrasting color pattern. (Riley & Gilbert 1999)
What does Cryptocephalus downiei eat?
The diet of the Cryptocephalus downiei includes Specific plant associations remain unknown (Riley & Gilbert 1999). ( 3 ).
When is Cryptocephalus downiei active?
Cryptocephalus downiei: seasonal activity - April 7 through May 6 based on 4 specimens collected in 1961, 1978, and 1980 (Riley & Gilbert 1999).