Epicauta parvula
This record describes Epicauta parvula (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Easily mistaken for a Meloe by shape, and unusually strong, and spaced punctures flightless
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
CO, KS, NE, NM, WY (western Prairies)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta parvula (Haldeman 1853) - replacement name
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta parvula. 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 parvula (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Boris Bueche
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta parvula
What is Epicauta parvula?
Epicauta parvula is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta parvula?
8 - 12 mm
How do you identify Epicauta parvula?
Easily mistaken for a Meloe by shape, and unusually strong, and spaced punctures
Where is Epicauta parvula found?
Range: CO, KS, NE, NM, WY (western Prairies)