Eusphyrus eusphyroides
This record describes Eusphyrus eusphyroides (species). Recorded family: Anthribidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum reticulate-punctate, the raised rims darker than the depressed areas Type Locality: Esperanza Ranch, Brownsville, Texas (Schaeffer 1906)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Anthribidae (Fungus Weevils)
- Subfamily
- Anthribinae
- Tribe
- Zygaenodini
- Genus
- Eusphyrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
mostly southmost TX (Hidalgo & Cameron Co.), plus Median & Brazos Co. - Map
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Eusphyrus eusphyroides. 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 Eusphyrus eusphyroides (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ed Riley; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Eusphyrus eusphyroides
What is Eusphyrus eusphyroides?
Eusphyrus eusphyroides is a species in the family Anthribidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Eusphyrus eusphyroides?
2.25-2.5 mm (Schaeffer 1906)
How do you identify Eusphyrus eusphyroides?
Pronotum reticulate-punctate, the raised rims darker than the depressed areas
Where is Eusphyrus eusphyroides found?
Range: mostly southmost TX (Hidalgo & Cameron Co.), plus Median & Brazos Co. - Map