Heptispa brevicornis
This record describes Heptispa brevicornis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is an unusual and noteworthy beetle possessing hispine characters not seen in other species from the United States and a combination of characters probably not found in any other hispine. The form of the antennae is its most unique character. They are especially short, each composed of seven articulating antennomeres that are nearly uniform in width, with the intermediate segments (IV–VI) being especially short. HOLOTYPE Texas considers this a SGCN
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cassidinae
- Tribe
- Chalepini
- Genus
- Heptispa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Known only from 2 spmns coll'ed at the type locality: TEXAS: Cameron Co., 6 mi. E Brownsville - January 13, 1972
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Heptispa brevicornis Riley 2015
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Heptispa brevicornis. 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 Heptispa brevicornis (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Heptispa brevicornis
What is Heptispa brevicornis?
Heptispa brevicornis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Heptispa brevicornis?
length 3.8–3.9 mm (based on 2 known spmns)
How do you identify Heptispa brevicornis?
This is an unusual and noteworthy beetle possessing hispine characters not seen in other species from the United States and a combination of characters probably not found in any other hispine. The form of the antennae is its most unique character. They are especially short, each composed of seven articulating antennomeres that are nearly uniform in width, with the intermediate segments (IV–VI) being especially short. HOLOTYPE
Where is Heptispa brevicornis found?
Range: Known only from 2 spmns coll'ed at the type locality: TEXAS: Cameron Co., 6 mi. E Brownsville - January 13, 1972