Epicauta atrivittata
This record describes Epicauta atrivittata (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytra cinereous-pubescent, with two wide black stripes down each, these connected behind ( 3 ) Det. J. C. Abbott, 1993 generally rare in Arizona. ( 3 )
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
se AZ to w. TX / nc Mex - Map , mostly NM-w.TX, with historical AZ records
Seasonal Activity
mostly Apr-Jun ( 5 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: most frequently on mesquite ( Propsopis , Fabaceae) , mostly NM-w.TX, with historical records from AZ also on nightshade ( Solanum , Solanaceae) and on four-wing saltbush ( Atriplex canescens , Chenopodiaceae) and on creosote bush ( Larrea tridentata , Zygophyllaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: atrivittata (L). 'black stripped'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta atrivittata. 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 atrivittata (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by john and jane balaban; Additional contributions by Matthias Buck , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta atrivittata
What is Epicauta atrivittata?
Epicauta atrivittata is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta atrivittata?
26-32 mm
How do you identify Epicauta atrivittata?
Elytra cinereous-pubescent, with two wide black stripes down each, these connected behind ( 3 ) Det. J. C. Abbott, 1993
Where is Epicauta atrivittata found?
Range: se AZ to w. TX / nc Mex - Map , mostly NM-w.TX, with historical AZ records
What does Epicauta atrivittata eat?
The diet of the Epicauta atrivittata includes most frequently on mesquite ( Propsopis , Fabaceae) , mostly NM-w.TX, with historical records from AZ also on nightshade ( Solanum , Solanaceae) and on four-wing saltbush ( Atriplex canescens , Chenopodiaceae) and on creosote bush ( Larrea tridentata , Zygophyllaceae).
When is Epicauta atrivittata active?
Epicauta atrivittata: seasonal activity - mostly Apr-Jun ( 5 ).