Cryptocephalus falli
This record describes Cryptocephalus falli (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytra: Dull creamy yellow but with striae, humerus, and irregular lateral spots reddish. Type Locality: Dunedin, Pinellas Co., Florida
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
Endemic to c. FL - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Unk. per Clark et al. (2004) ( 4 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptocephalus falli. 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 falli (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Edward Ruden
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptocephalus falli
What is Cryptocephalus falli?
Cryptocephalus falli is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptocephalus falli?
Length: 4.6 to 5.1 mm
How do you identify Cryptocephalus falli?
Elytra: Dull creamy yellow but with striae, humerus, and irregular lateral spots reddish.
Where is Cryptocephalus falli found?
Range: Endemic to c. FL - Map
What does Cryptocephalus falli eat?
The diet of the Cryptocephalus falli includes Unk. per Clark et al. (2004) ( 4 ).