Disonycha punctigera
This record describes Disonycha punctigera (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Elytra | Elytra with narrow black stripes, the submarginal usually not extending beyond median at apex. |
| Pronotum | Pronotum with (usually) 4 spots, head with dark base (difference vs. D. caroliniana ); Elytra distinctly, and quite densely punctured (name!) |
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
Great Plains to Rockies: IL-MO to AB-NM - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Coronilla varia is confirmed as host. Native Fabaceae will also serve.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Disonycha punctigera LeConte 1859
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Disonycha punctigera. 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 punctigera (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Disonycha punctigera
What is Disonycha punctigera?
Disonycha punctigera is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Disonycha punctigera?
6.3-7.6 mm
How do you identify Disonycha punctigera?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Elytra | Elytra with narrow black stripes, the submarginal usually not extending beyond median at apex. |
| Pronotum | Pronotum with (usually) 4 spots, head with dark base (difference vs. D. caroliniana ); Elytra distinctly, and quite densely punctured (name!) |
Where is Disonycha punctigera found?
Range: Great Plains to Rockies: IL-MO to AB-NM - Map
What does Disonycha punctigera eat?
The diet of the Disonycha punctigera includes Coronilla varia is confirmed as host. Native Fabaceae will also serve..