Epicauta corvina
This record describes Epicauta corvina (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
black, feebly shiny; pubescence moderately dense and black. Posterior tibial spurs spiniform. ( 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
Habitat
at intermediate elevations in se. AZ and at somewhat higher elevations from the White Mts. to Prescott. ( 3 ) , often abundant in AZ
Geographic Range
Great Plains to AZ (c.AZ-e.TX-SD-CO) / c.Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
May-Oct. in AZ ( 3 ) ( 4 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: silverleaf nightshade ( Solanum elaeagnifolium , Solanaceae) seems to be the preferred food plant in the Sulphur Springs Valley of AZ ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: corvina (L). 'crow like'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta corvina. 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 corvina (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta corvina
What is Epicauta corvina?
Epicauta corvina is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta corvina?
20-27 mm
How do you identify Epicauta corvina?
black, feebly shiny; pubescence moderately dense and black. Posterior tibial spurs spiniform. ( 3 )
Where is Epicauta corvina found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | at intermediate elevations in se. AZ and at somewhat higher elevations from the White Mts. to Prescott. ( 3 ) , often abundant in AZ |
| Range | Great Plains to AZ (c.AZ-e.TX-SD-CO) / c.Mex. - Map |
What does Epicauta corvina eat?
The diet of the Epicauta corvina includes silverleaf nightshade ( Solanum elaeagnifolium , Solanaceae) seems to be the preferred food plant in the Sulphur Springs Valley of AZ ( 3 ).
When is Epicauta corvina active?
Epicauta corvina: seasonal activity - May-Oct. in AZ ( 3 ) ( 4 ).