Epitrix lobata
This record describes Epitrix lobata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Body completely piceous the only species north of Mexico with a series of irregular striations present on the vertex of the head. Type Locality: South Carolina
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Epitrix (Nightshade Flea Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
FL-NC-OH, s.TX (Cameron & San Patricio Cos.)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Observed Host Plants: Groundcherry ( Physalis sp., Solanaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epitrix lobata Crotch, 1873
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epitrix lobata. 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 Epitrix lobata (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by ADeczynski; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Epitrix lobata
What is Epitrix lobata?
Epitrix lobata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epitrix lobata?
1.77-1.99 mm
How do you identify Epitrix lobata?
Body completely piceous the only species north of Mexico with a series of irregular striations present on the vertex of the head.
Where is Epitrix lobata found?
Range: FL-NC-OH, s.TX (Cameron & San Patricio Cos.)
What does Epitrix lobata eat?
The diet of the Epitrix lobata includes Observed Host Plants: Groundcherry ( Physalis sp., Solanaceae).