Dibolia catherinia
This record describes Dibolia catherinia (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species is distinct from all other North American species, except reyheria , championi , and kansana , in having an orange or reddish-brown pronotum and a light-colored head and ventral surface. Distribution in Arizona combined with indistinct punctation of elytral interstices separates it from those three species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Dibolia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Adults have been found on Penstemon . Leaves are skeletonized by surface feeding of adults (J. T. Botz, personal observation). Not sure if the larvae have been found.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Dibolia catherinia Mignot, 1971
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dibolia catherinia. 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 Dibolia catherinia (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Botz; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Dibolia catherinia
What is Dibolia catherinia?
Dibolia catherinia is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Dibolia catherinia?
males 2.7-3.1 mm; females 2.9-3.4 mm
How do you identify Dibolia catherinia?
This species is distinct from all other North American species, except reyheria , championi , and kansana , in having an orange or reddish-brown pronotum and a light-colored head and ventral surface. Distribution in Arizona combined with indistinct punctation of elytral interstices separates it from those three species.
Where is Dibolia catherinia found?
Range: AZ
What does Dibolia catherinia eat?
The diet of the Dibolia catherinia includes Adults have been found on Penstemon . Leaves are skeletonized by surface feeding of adults (J. T. Botz, personal observation). Not sure if the larvae have been found..