Cyclocephala melanocephala
This record describes Cyclocephala melanocephala (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Cyclocephala melanocephala (Cyclocephala melanocephala) is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, commonly known as scarab beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Dynastinae, tribe Cyclocephalini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Scarabaeoidea. This species belongs to the genus Cyclocephala (Masked Chafers). Size: 9‒15 mm. Active during Jan‒Nov , mostly June-Sept (BG data).
Identification notes
hard to separate from C. laminata
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dynastinae
- Tribe
- Cyclocephalini
- Genus
- Cyclocephala (Masked Chafers)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
s.CA‒s.KS‒MS to Argentina - Map , mostly sw US
Seasonal Activity
Jan‒Nov , mostly June-Sept (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
often on flowers of Datura (Solanaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cyclocephala melanocephala (Fabricius 1775)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cyclocephala melanocephala. 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 Cyclocephala melanocephala (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyclocephala melanocephala
What is Cyclocephala melanocephala?
Cyclocephala melanocephala is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cyclocephala melanocephala?
9‒15 mm
How do you identify Cyclocephala melanocephala?
hard to separate from C. laminata
Where is Cyclocephala melanocephala found?
Range: s.CA‒s.KS‒MS to Argentina - Map , mostly sw US
When is Cyclocephala melanocephala active?
Cyclocephala melanocephala: seasonal activity - Jan‒Nov , mostly June-Sept (BG data).
What is the life cycle of a Cyclocephala melanocephala?
often on flowers of Datura (Solanaceae)