Hyperaspis trifurcata
This record describes Hyperaspis trifurcata (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's figures - The elytral color pattern is somewhat variable, but always distinctive for this species. Types: One female collected by [Schaeffer] in Brownsville, Texas; another female and one male in Dietz's collection, the former labelled Houston, Texas, and the male, simply Texas. (Schaeffer 1905)
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
Habitat
Often on prickly pear cactus - Opuntia spp. ( 3 ) - due to the preferred host of cochineal scale insects ( Dactylopius spp.).
Geographic Range
mostly s.CA to e.TX, but also FL, SC - Map , (see BG Map for e. records) - range has expanded since Gordon's Map (note dots , not open circles as indicated) , most common Hyperaspis sp. in Texas
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hyperaspis trifurcata Schaeffer, 1905
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hyperaspis trifurcata. 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 trifurcata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn , Harsi S. Parker , James Bailey , Abigail Parker
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyperaspis trifurcata
What is Hyperaspis trifurcata?
Hyperaspis trifurcata is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hyperaspis trifurcata?
Length 2.3 to 3.0 mm Width 1.8 to 2.4 mm
How do you identify Hyperaspis trifurcata?
Gordon's figures - The elytral color pattern is somewhat variable, but always distinctive for this species.
Where is Hyperaspis trifurcata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Often on prickly pear cactus - Opuntia spp. ( 3 ) - due to the preferred host of cochineal scale insects ( Dactylopius spp.). |
| Range | mostly s.CA to e.TX, but also FL, SC - Map , (see BG Map for e. records) - range has expanded since Gordon's Map (note dots , not open circles as indicated) , most common Hyperaspis sp. in Texas |