Cymatodera neomexicana
This record describes Cymatodera neomexicana (species). Recorded family: Cleridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Cymatodera neomexicana is characterized by elongate paired metasternal carinae in the male, and the shape of the pygidium. The dorsal elytral patterning is not diagnostic. (J. Rifkind, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2018)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cleroidea
- Family
- Cleridae (Checkered Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Tillinae
- Genus
- Cymatodera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
NM to c. TX, CO / Mex.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cymatodera neomexicana Knull 1934
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cymatodera neomexicana. 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 Cymatodera neomexicana (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Cymatodera neomexicana
What is Cymatodera neomexicana?
Cymatodera neomexicana is a species in the family Cleridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cymatodera neomexicana?
8.3 mm (BG data)
How do you identify Cymatodera neomexicana?
Cymatodera neomexicana is characterized by elongate paired metasternal carinae in the male, and the shape of the pygidium. The dorsal elytral patterning is not diagnostic. (J. Rifkind, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2018)
Where is Cymatodera neomexicana found?
Range: NM to c. TX, CO / Mex.
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