Black Blister Beetle
Epicauta pensylvanica
This record describes Epicauta pensylvanica (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wikipedia reference for Epicauta pensylvanica: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epicauta_pensylvanica.
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
e. NA to AB-AZ - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: asso. w/ Asteraceae, such as goldenrods and asters. May damage crops, such as beets, potatoes, tomatoes.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta pensylvanica ( De Geer 1775)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta pensylvanica. 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 Black Blister Beetle (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Beatriz Moisset; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn , kschnei , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Blister Beetle
How big is Black Blister Beetle?
7-15 mm
Where is Black Blister Beetle found?
Range: e. NA to AB-AZ - Map
What does Black Blister Beetle eat?
The diet of the Black Blister Beetle includes asso. w/ Asteraceae, such as goldenrods and asters. May damage crops, such as beets, potatoes, tomatoes..