Donacia edentata
This record describes Donacia edentata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species is very distinct from any other known so far. By description and superficially it resembles parvidens somewhat, but the form is more elongate, the prothorax always dull, the antennal joints longer and narrower, the posterior femora in both sexes longer and without tooth. In one of the males an exceedingly small, feeble tubercle is visible on the posterior femora. (Schaeffer [1919])
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Donaciinae
- Tribe
- Plateumarini
- Genus
- Donacia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. coast: FL-NH
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Pond lilies
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Donacia edentata Schaeffer, 1919
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Donacia edentata. 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 Donacia edentata (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Ingolf
Frequently Asked Questions About Donacia edentata
What is Donacia edentata?
Donacia edentata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Donacia edentata?
This species is very distinct from any other known so far. By description and superficially it resembles parvidens somewhat, but the form is more elongate, the prothorax always dull, the antennal joints longer and narrower, the posterior femora in both sexes longer and without tooth. In one of the males an exceedingly small, feeble tubercle is visible on the posterior femora. (Schaeffer [1919])
Where is Donacia edentata found?
Range: e. coast: FL-NH
What does Donacia edentata eat?
The diet of the Donacia edentata includes Pond lilies.