Epicauta obesa
This record describes Epicauta obesa (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Most resembles E. cinerea , vestiture always in one colour (grey - brown - black); male antennae without long hairs within, shorter than in the other sp.. Dark abdominal spots in some males.
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
widespread eastern (west to ON‒IA‒NM) into s Mex. - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: (L). 'eat away, devour"
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta obesa. 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 obesa (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta obesa
What is Epicauta obesa?
Epicauta obesa is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta obesa?
6 - 15 mm
How do you identify Epicauta obesa?
Most resembles E. cinerea , vestiture always in one colour (grey - brown - black); male antennae without long hairs within, shorter than in the other sp.. Dark abdominal spots in some males.
Where is Epicauta obesa found?
Range: widespread eastern (west to ON‒IA‒NM) into s Mex. - Map