Geraeus modestus
This record describes Geraeus modestus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Baridinae
- Tribe
- Apostasimerini
- Genus
- Geraeus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
appears to prefer sandy habitats (MAQ, pers. obs.)
Geographic Range
apparently disjunct: se AZ-TX, coastal SC-FL (other records questionable)
Seasonal Activity
Sep-Nov
Diet and Behavior
Diet: hosts: Asteraceae, Commelinaceae
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Geraeus modestus. 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 Geraeus modestus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Geraeus modestus
How big is Geraeus modestus?
3.6-5.1 mm
Where is Geraeus modestus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | appears to prefer sandy habitats (MAQ, pers. obs.) |
| Range | apparently disjunct: se AZ-TX, coastal SC-FL (other records questionable) |
What does Geraeus modestus eat?
The diet of the Geraeus modestus includes hosts: Asteraceae, Commelinaceae.
When is Geraeus modestus active?
Geraeus modestus: seasonal activity - Sep-Nov.