Harpalus texanus
This record describes Harpalus texanus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
PWM update 2025. Very similar to H. pensylvanicus . Reliable ID should be based on examination of the internal sac of the aedeagus --see Ball & Anderson (1962). Otherwise, one can evaluate the more accessible apex of the aedeagus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Harpalini
- Genus
- Harpalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Coastal Plain, NC-FL-eTX
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Harpalus texanus Casey 1914
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Harpalus texanus. 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 Harpalus texanus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Peter W. Messer; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Harpalus texanus
What is Harpalus texanus?
Harpalus texanus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Harpalus texanus?
PWM update 2025. Very similar to H. pensylvanicus . Reliable ID should be based on examination of the internal sac of the aedeagus --see Ball & Anderson (1962). Otherwise, one can evaluate the more accessible apex of the aedeagus.
Where is Harpalus texanus found?
Range: Coastal Plain, NC-FL-eTX