Cryptocephalus mutabilis
This record describes Cryptocephalus mutabilis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Dets. M. A. Quinn, 2010 marked sexual dimorphism: ♂♂ 4.3-5.3 mm, with dark markings usually black; ♀♀ 5.3-6.5 mm, markings usually reddish - spmns from Randolph Co., MO Dets. E. G. Riley 1975
Identification notes
Dets. M. A. Quinn, 2010
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
e. NA (e.TX-FL-QC-MB) - Map , TX records e. of the Brazos River
Seasonal Activity
Jun-Oct (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Polyphagous ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cryptocephalus mutabilis F.E. Melsheimer 1847
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptocephalus mutabilis. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptocephalus mutabilis
What is Cryptocephalus mutabilis?
Cryptocephalus mutabilis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptocephalus mutabilis?
4.3-6.5 mm
How do you identify Cryptocephalus mutabilis?
Dets. M. A. Quinn, 2010
Where is Cryptocephalus mutabilis found?
Range: e. NA (e.TX-FL-QC-MB) - Map , TX records e. of the Brazos River
What does Cryptocephalus mutabilis eat?
The diet of the Cryptocephalus mutabilis includes Polyphagous ( 4 ).
When is Cryptocephalus mutabilis active?
Cryptocephalus mutabilis: seasonal activity - Jun-Oct (BG data).