Cryptocephalus vapidus
This record describes Cryptocephalus vapidus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. E. G. Riley, 1984 species represented by 57 individuals (in the USNM), all taken by D. J. and J. N. Knull in the Chihuahua Mountains of Arizona, except for one from the Patagonia Mountains of Arizona. Holotype collected August 7, 1959.
Identification notes
Det. E. G. Riley, 1984
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 AZ But see specimen determined by E.G. Riley that was collected in TEXAS: Jeff Davis Co., Davis Mtns. State Park
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cryptocephalus vapidus R. White 1968
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptocephalus vapidus. 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 vapidus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Edward Ruden
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptocephalus vapidus
What is Cryptocephalus vapidus?
Cryptocephalus vapidus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptocephalus vapidus?
Length: 3.5 to 4.8 mm.
How do you identify Cryptocephalus vapidus?
Det. E. G. Riley, 1984
Where is Cryptocephalus vapidus found?
Range: Endemic to AZ But see specimen determined by E.G. Riley that was collected in TEXAS: Jeff Davis Co., Davis Mtns. State Park