Hyperaspis oculifera
This record describes Hyperaspis oculifera (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's figures This little species is very distinctive because of the unusual toothed apical margin of the prosternum and the male genitalia which, although of the bigeminata type, have the basal lobe quite divergent from the normal form. Type locality: Benson, Cochise Co., Arizona.
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
se AZ - Map
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hyperaspis oculifera. 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 oculifera (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyperaspis oculifera
What is Hyperaspis oculifera?
Hyperaspis oculifera is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hyperaspis oculifera?
Length 2.0 to 2.6 mm
How do you identify Hyperaspis oculifera?
Gordon's figures This little species is very distinctive because of the unusual toothed apical margin of the prosternum and the male genitalia which, although of the bigeminata type, have the basal lobe quite divergent from the normal form.
Where is Hyperaspis oculifera found?
Range: se AZ - Map