Epicauta alphonsii
This record describes Epicauta alphonsii (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Horn's original usage was alphonsii which he continued in subsequent publications so clearly the spelling was intentional. Subsequent authors have continued with that same spelling. The name was in honor of a Mr. Alphonse so, true, we currently would form 'alphonsei.' However, I think prevailing usage should be followed since the original spelling would not seem to require a mandatory emendation according to Article 32.5 in the Code. --J.D. Pinto, pers.comm. to =v=, 15.x.2012
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.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta alphonsii Horn
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta alphonsii. 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 alphonsii (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov