Hyperaspis imitator
This record describes Hyperaspis imitator (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's Figures - Pronotum black with lateral area yellow; elytron black with discal spot and lateral yellow villa from base to apex Holotype. Male. TEXAS: Bexar Co., San Antonio, Olmos Park, 28-VI-1947, B. E. White Coll., sweeping Ceanothus sp. (Rhamnaceae). Spmn in the California Academy of Sciences. [Two known localities: Olmos Park, 651 Devine Rd, San Antonio, Bexar Co., TX 78212; and Garner State Park, 234 RR 1050, Concan, Uvalde Co., TX 78838]
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scymninae
- Tribe
- Hyperaspidini
- Genus
- Hyperaspis (Sigil Lady Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
c. TX - Map . Known from three spmns coll'ed in c. TX: 2 in Bexar Co. in 1947, and 1 in Uvalde Co. in 1986 ,(BG data)
Seasonal Activity
June-July (based on three spmns)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hyperaspis imitator Gordon 1985
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hyperaspis imitator. 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 Hyperaspis imitator (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyperaspis imitator
What is Hyperaspis imitator?
Hyperaspis imitator is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hyperaspis imitator?
Length 2.0-2.25 mm
How do you identify Hyperaspis imitator?
Gordon's Figures - Pronotum black with lateral area yellow; elytron black with discal spot and lateral yellow villa from base to apex
Where is Hyperaspis imitator found?
Range: c. TX - Map . Known from three spmns coll'ed in c. TX: 2 in Bexar Co. in 1947, and 1 in Uvalde Co. in 1986 ,(BG data)
When is Hyperaspis imitator active?
Hyperaspis imitator: seasonal activity - June-July (based on three spmns).