Exochomus aethiops
This record describes Exochomus aethiops (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's figures - Color entirely black except antenna and mouthparts yellowish brown.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chilocorinae
- Genus
- Exochomus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w. N. Amer. (CA-TX-SD-AB) - Map , plus 16 spmns from Ellis Co., OK
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Exochomus aethiops. 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 Exochomus aethiops (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Abigail Parker; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Exochomus aethiops
What is Exochomus aethiops?
Exochomus aethiops is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Exochomus aethiops?
Length 3.0 to 4.2 mm
How do you identify Exochomus aethiops?
Gordon's figures - Color entirely black except antenna and mouthparts yellowish brown.
Where is Exochomus aethiops found?
Range: w. N. Amer. (CA-TX-SD-AB) - Map , plus 16 spmns from Ellis Co., OK