Falsomordellistena pubescens
This record describes Falsomordellistena pubescens (species). Recorded family: Mordellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
somewhat variable in markings and color, ranging from black to reddish brown, but the general pattern is always about the same in spmns not rubbed. ( 3 ) , and This species is rather prettily marked and does not resemble any other of our species of Mordellistena ( 3 ) ... One key among several others is the light coloration along the elytral apex. Few, if any other tumblers have such a band actually reaching the apex.... (emphasis added)
Wikipedia reference for Falsomordellistena pubescens: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falsomordellistena_pubescens.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Mordellidae (Tumbling Flower Beetles)
- Tribe
- Mordellistenini
- Genus
- Falsomordellistena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA (NB-SC to KS-TX) to C. Amer. - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly Apr-Jul ( 3 ) (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
found on flowers, such as Cornus and Viburnum ( 3 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Falsomordellistena pubescens. 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 Falsomordellistena pubescens (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by cotinis , john and jane balaban , Mike Quinn , Tim Moyer , nebbeetle , Boris Bueche , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Falsomordellistena pubescens
What is Falsomordellistena pubescens?
Falsomordellistena pubescens is a species in the family Mordellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Falsomordellistena pubescens?
3.5-4.5 mm ; 2.5-3 mm
How do you identify Falsomordellistena pubescens?
somewhat variable in markings and color, ranging from black to reddish brown, but the general pattern is always about the same in spmns not rubbed. ( 3 ) , and This species is rather prettily marked and does not resemble any other of our species of Mordellistena ( 3 ) ... One key among several others is the light coloration along the elytral apex. Few, if any other tumblers have such a band actually reaching the apex.... (emphasis added)
Where is Falsomordellistena pubescens found?
Range: e. NA (NB-SC to KS-TX) to C. Amer. - Map
When is Falsomordellistena pubescens active?
Falsomordellistena pubescens: seasonal activity - mostly Apr-Jul ( 3 ) (BG data).
What is the life cycle of a Falsomordellistena pubescens?
found on flowers, such as Cornus and Viburnum ( 3 )