Epicauta texana
This record describes Epicauta texana (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
J.D. Pinto, 2010
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
AZ to c. TX - Map
Seasonal Activity
June-Sept
Diet and Behavior
Life History
occurs on silverleaf nightshade ( Solanum elaeagnifolium , Solanaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epicauta texana Werner 1944
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epicauta texana. 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 texana (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicauta texana
How big is Epicauta texana?
18-24 mm
How do you identify Epicauta texana?
J.D. Pinto, 2010
Where is Epicauta texana found?
Range: AZ to c. TX - Map
When is Epicauta texana active?
Epicauta texana: seasonal activity - June-Sept.
What is the life cycle of a Epicauta texana?
occurs on silverleaf nightshade ( Solanum elaeagnifolium , Solanaceae)