Epicauta sericans
This record describes Epicauta sericans (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
uniform pubescence, lack of dark elytral markings, broad pronotum, short ant. which widen apically, and large eyes
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
Plains to Rockies (w.Can to e.Mex) - Map
Seasonal Activity
May-Sep
Diet and Behavior
Life History
adults on bean leaves
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta sericans LeConte 1866
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta sericans. 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 sericans (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta sericans
What is Epicauta sericans?
Epicauta sericans is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epicauta sericans?
8-13 mm
How do you identify Epicauta sericans?
uniform pubescence, lack of dark elytral markings, broad pronotum, short ant. which widen apically, and large eyes
Where is Epicauta sericans found?
Range: Plains to Rockies (w.Can to e.Mex) - Map
When is Epicauta sericans active?
Epicauta sericans: seasonal activity - May-Sep.
What is the life cycle of a Epicauta sericans?
adults on bean leaves