Griburius larvatus
This record describes Griburius larvatus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The specimens Riley et al. (2001) assigned to G. larvatus (over 100 examined) have the elytral pattern variably developed, ranging from nearly absent to heavily marked. The anterior discal spot of the elytra is basal, nearly touching the leading margin of the elytron. Frequently in heavily marked specimens there is a weak to strongly developed median elytral macula which may be narrowly joined to the discal maculae. The elytral and pronotal maculae are somewhat angular in shape, and the suture is narrowly black in most specimens. The abdomen is yellow with a median, variably sized, dark macula. The pygidium is always entirely pale.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cryptocephalinae
- Tribe
- Cryptocephalini
- Genus
- Griburius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se GA through peninsular FL - Map
Seasonal Activity
Mar-July in FL (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Species in the Ericaceae, Fabaceae, and Malvaceae are listed as host plants ( 5 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: larvus (L). 'ghost, spectre'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Griburius larvatus. 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 Griburius larvatus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by john and jane balaban; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Griburius larvatus
What is Griburius larvatus?
Griburius larvatus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Griburius larvatus?
4.32 (smallest male) to 5.6 mm (largest female) ( 3 )
How do you identify Griburius larvatus?
The specimens Riley et al. (2001) assigned to G. larvatus (over 100 examined) have the elytral pattern variably developed, ranging from nearly absent to heavily marked. The anterior discal spot of the elytra is basal, nearly touching the leading margin of the elytron. Frequently in heavily marked specimens there is a weak to strongly developed median elytral macula which may be narrowly joined to the discal maculae. The elytral and pronotal maculae are somewhat angular in shape, and the suture is narrowly black in most specimens. The abdomen is yellow with a median, variably sized, dark macula. The pygidium is always entirely pale.
Where is Griburius larvatus found?
Range: se GA through peninsular FL - Map
What does Griburius larvatus eat?
The diet of the Griburius larvatus includes Species in the Ericaceae, Fabaceae, and Malvaceae are listed as host plants ( 5 ).
When is Griburius larvatus active?
Griburius larvatus: seasonal activity - Mar-July in FL (BG data).