Dasydactylus cnici
This record describes Dasydactylus cnici (species). Recorded family: Erotylidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Erotylidae (Pleasing Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Erotylinae
- Tribe
- Languriini
- Genus
- Dasydactylus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
Jan-Dec
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Adults quite common, especially on Cnicus virginianus (Schaeffer 1904), also on Eupatorium spp. (MAQ, pers. observation)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Dasydactylus cnici Schaeffer 1904
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dasydactylus cnici. 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 Dasydactylus cnici (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Dasydactylus cnici
How big is Dasydactylus cnici?
5.5-10 mm
Where is Dasydactylus cnici found?
Range: southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / Mex. - Map
What does Dasydactylus cnici eat?
The diet of the Dasydactylus cnici includes Adults quite common, especially on Cnicus virginianus (Schaeffer 1904), also on Eupatorium spp. (MAQ, pers. observation).
When is Dasydactylus cnici active?
Dasydactylus cnici: seasonal activity - Jan-Dec.