Epicauta conferta
This record describes Epicauta conferta (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytra short, leaving the tip of the abdomen exposed, separately rounded. Wingless. Det. v. belov, 2019 Type locality: Council Bluffs, Iowa and near the Rocky Mountains. Say's type lost. Neotype locality: Dallas, Texas.
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
c US (TX-AR-IA-KS) / Mex. - Map , mostly c. Plains (KS-OK and western edge of MO-AR)
Seasonal Activity
mostly Jun-Oct , common
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta conferta. 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 conferta (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by john and jane balaban; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta conferta
What is Epicauta conferta?
Epicauta conferta is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta conferta?
12-19 mm
How do you identify Epicauta conferta?
Elytra short, leaving the tip of the abdomen exposed, separately rounded. Wingless. Det. v. belov, 2019
Where is Epicauta conferta found?
Range: c US (TX-AR-IA-KS) / Mex. - Map , mostly c. Plains (KS-OK and western edge of MO-AR)
When is Epicauta conferta active?
Epicauta conferta: seasonal activity - mostly Jun-Oct , common.