Epicauta stuarti
This record describes Epicauta stuarti (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
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
Habitat
southern high plains
Geographic Range
c. US (NM-OK-KS-WY) - Map
Seasonal Activity
most records from Sept.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
on flowering broom snakeweed - Gutierrezia sarothrae (Asteraceae) (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta stuarti LeConte 1868
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta stuarti. 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 stuarti (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta stuarti
How big is Epicauta stuarti?
8-13 mm
Where is Epicauta stuarti found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | southern high plains |
| Range | c. US (NM-OK-KS-WY) - Map |
When is Epicauta stuarti active?
Epicauta stuarti: seasonal activity - most records from Sept..
What is the life cycle of a Epicauta stuarti?
on flowering broom snakeweed - Gutierrezia sarothrae (Asteraceae) (BG data)