ColeopteraChrysomelidae – Leaf Beetles

Graphops simplex

This record describes Graphops simplex (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Graphops simplex - Graphops simplex
Contributed by Mike Quinn

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Coleoptera (Beetles)
Suborder
Polyphaga
Superfamily
Chrysomeloidea
Family
Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
Subfamily
Eumolpinae
Tribe
Typophorini
Genus
Graphops

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Geographic Range

sc US (TX-MS-KS) - Map (GBIF), mostly TX

Diet and Behavior

Diet: evening primrose ( Oenothera , Onagraceae)

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: Graphops simplex LeConte, 1884

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Graphops simplex. 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.

Explore Coleoptera families and species →

Photos of Graphops simplex (4)

Graphops simplex - photo 1
Contributed by Mike Quinn
Graphops simplex - photo 2
Contributed by Mike Quinn
Graphops simplex - photo 3
Contributed by Mike Quinn
Graphops simplex - photo 4
Contributed by Mike Quinn

Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn

How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.