Epicauta lauta
This record describes Epicauta lauta (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Legs partly black, in contrast with body. Basal antennal segments not enlarged in either sex and without cinereous pubescence
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
s. CA to w. TX / nw. Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
Jun-Aug
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta lauta (Horn)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta lauta. 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 lauta (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta lauta
What is Epicauta lauta?
Epicauta lauta is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta lauta?
9-15 mm
How do you identify Epicauta lauta?
Legs partly black, in contrast with body. Basal antennal segments not enlarged in either sex and without cinereous pubescence
Where is Epicauta lauta found?
Range: s. CA to w. TX / nw. Mex. - Map
When is Epicauta lauta active?
Epicauta lauta: seasonal activity - Jun-Aug.