Disonycha conjugata
This record describes Disonycha conjugata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Disonycha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
LA, s.FL-NC / W. Indies - Map , almost all records from Florida peninsula
Seasonal Activity
Mar-Jun (FL BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Hosts are species of Smartweed ( Polygonum , Polygonaceae), including P. punctatum ( 5 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: conjug (L). 'joined together'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Disonycha conjugata. 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 Disonycha conjugata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by john and jane balaban; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Disonycha conjugata
Where is Disonycha conjugata found?
Range: LA, s.FL-NC / W. Indies - Map , almost all records from Florida peninsula
What does Disonycha conjugata eat?
The diet of the Disonycha conjugata includes Hosts are species of Smartweed ( Polygonum , Polygonaceae), including P. punctatum ( 5 ).
When is Disonycha conjugata active?
Disonycha conjugata: seasonal activity - Mar-Jun (FL BG data).