Epicauta alastor
This record describes Epicauta alastor (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Though a member of Macrobasis , the first antennomere is not conspicuously modified even in males. Similar to E. hirsutipubescens/virgula , but antennomere 3 much longer than 2, and antennae relatively longer Type Locality: Florence, AZ Sometimes fairly common at light
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Meloidae (Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Meloinae
- Tribe
- Epicautini
- Genus
- Epicauta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
s.CA to w.TX / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
one record from alfalfa, and one on mesquite
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta alastor Skinner 1904
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta alastor. 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 Epicauta alastor (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta alastor
What is Epicauta alastor?
Epicauta alastor is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta alastor?
9-13 mm
How do you identify Epicauta alastor?
Though a member of Macrobasis , the first antennomere is not conspicuously modified even in males. Similar to E. hirsutipubescens/virgula , but antennomere 3 much longer than 2, and antennae relatively longer
Where is Epicauta alastor found?
Range: s.CA to w.TX / Mex. - Map
What is the life cycle of a Epicauta alastor?
one record from alfalfa, and one on mesquite