Diplotaxis pubipes
This record describes Diplotaxis pubipes (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The distinct antescutellar thoracic and circumscutellar elytral impressions, together with the densely pubescent tarsal joints , render the recognition of this species easy. (Schaeffer, 1907) Type Locality: Esperanza Ranch, Brownsville, Cameron Co., Texas.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melolonthinae
- Tribe
- Diplotaxini
- Genus
- Diplotaxis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / ne Mex. - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Diplotaxis pubipes Schaeffer, 1907
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Diplotaxis pubipes. 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 Diplotaxis pubipes (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Diplotaxis pubipes
What is Diplotaxis pubipes?
Diplotaxis pubipes is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Diplotaxis pubipes?
Length 8.5 mm (Schaeffer, 1907)
How do you identify Diplotaxis pubipes?
The distinct antescutellar thoracic and circumscutellar elytral impressions, together with the densely pubescent tarsal joints , render the recognition of this species easy. (Schaeffer, 1907)
Where is Diplotaxis pubipes found?
Range: southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / ne Mex. - Map