ColeopteraChrysomelidae – Leaf Beetles

Distigmoptera impennata

This record describes Distigmoptera impennata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Distigmoptera impennata - Distigmoptera impennata
Contributed by Mike Quinn

Varying from yellow to dark brown, densely punctate, pubescent; the striate punctures of elytra well separated by distinct intervals; Males either wingless or with wings reduced. (Blake 1943) Type locality: Isle au Haut, Maine, collected in August 1896, (Bowditch collection). I have not seen a good series from any eastern locality, but only a few scattered single specimens for the most part. The series from Isle au Haut of 4 specimens, and 7 specimens from Tyngsboro, Mass., of Blanchard's collecting are the largest series examined. (Blake 1943)

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Coleoptera (Beetles)
Suborder
Polyphaga
Superfamily
Chrysomeloidea
Family
Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
Subfamily
Galerucinae
Tribe
Alticini
Genus
Distigmoptera

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Geographic Range

scattered e. NA records (TX-AL-NB-MO)

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: Distigmoptera impennata Blake, 1943

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Distigmoptera impennata. 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.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Distigmoptera impennata

What is Distigmoptera impennata?

Distigmoptera impennata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.

How big is Distigmoptera impennata?

2.1-2.5 mm long (Blake 1943)

How do you identify Distigmoptera impennata?

Varying from yellow to dark brown, densely punctate, pubescent; the striate punctures of elytra well separated by distinct intervals; Males either wingless or with wings reduced. (Blake 1943)

Where is Distigmoptera impennata found?

Range: scattered e. NA records (TX-AL-NB-MO)

How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.