Cyclocephala parallela
This record describes Cyclocephala parallela (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
similar to C. borealis and C. lurida , but clypeus is smaller with margins more reflexed. Also the elytra are shinier with less reticulation. Type Locality: Jacksonville, Duval Co., Florida
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
FL peninsula to coastal SC - Map
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cyclocephala parallela. 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 parallela (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyclocephala parallela
What is Cyclocephala parallela?
Cyclocephala parallela is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Cyclocephala parallela?
similar to C. borealis and C. lurida , but clypeus is smaller with margins more reflexed. Also the elytra are shinier with less reticulation.
Where is Cyclocephala parallela found?
Range: FL peninsula to coastal SC - Map