Fallapion pensylvanicum
This record describes Fallapion pensylvanicum (species). Recorded family: Brentidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Brentidae (Primitive Weevils)
- Subfamily
- Apioninae
- Tribe
- Piezotrachelini
- Genus
- Fallapion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
transcontinental (NS-BC south to FL-CA-Baja) ( 3 ) ( 4 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: on water hemlock ( Cicuta maculata ) and wild parsnip
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Fallapion pensylvanicum (Boheman 1839)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Fallapion pensylvanicum. 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 Fallapion pensylvanicum (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Fallapion pensylvanicum
How big is Fallapion pensylvanicum?
1.8-2.3 mm ; 1.4-1.9 mm
Where is Fallapion pensylvanicum found?
Range: transcontinental (NS-BC south to FL-CA-Baja) ( 3 ) ( 4 )
What does Fallapion pensylvanicum eat?
The diet of the Fallapion pensylvanicum includes on water hemlock ( Cicuta maculata ) and wild parsnip.