Epicauta hirsutipubescens
This record describes Epicauta hirsutipubescens (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Epicauta hirsutipubescens (Epicauta hirsutipubescens) is a species in the family Meloidae, commonly known as blister beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Meloinae, tribe Epicautini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Tenebrionoidea. This species belongs to the genus Epicauta. Size: 9-12 mm. Active during Jun-Aug.
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
AZ to w. TX - Map
Seasonal Activity
Jun-Aug
Diet and Behavior
Life History
known to attack Viscid Acacia ( Vachellia (=Acacia) vernicosa , Fabaceae) taken once on western coralbean ( Erythrina flabelliformis , Fabaceae) at Ruby, AZ
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta hirsutipubescens. 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 hirsutipubescens (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta hirsutipubescens
What is Epicauta hirsutipubescens?
Epicauta hirsutipubescens is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta hirsutipubescens?
9-12 mm
Where is Epicauta hirsutipubescens found?
Range: AZ to w. TX - Map
When is Epicauta hirsutipubescens active?
Epicauta hirsutipubescens: seasonal activity - Jun-Aug.
What is the life cycle of a Epicauta hirsutipubescens?
known to attack Viscid Acacia ( Vachellia (=Acacia) vernicosa , Fabaceae) taken once on western coralbean ( Erythrina flabelliformis , Fabaceae) at Ruby, AZ