Kuschelina minata
This record describes Kuschelina minata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
distinguished mainly by the median elytral vitta which is straight, narrow, often interrupted and not curved at the apex towards the suture as it is in others of the group. Usually the markings are paler also, being reddish brown, and the beetle is smaller and not very convex. (emphasis added) true Kuschelina minata Three cotypes in Bose collection, Museum of Natural History, Paris, from Carolina, probably near Charleston, S.C.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Kuschelina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
miniata proper - MS-FL-NC ( miniata species complex - e. US)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Kuschelina minata (Fabricius)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Kuschelina minata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kuschelina minata
What is Kuschelina minata?
Kuschelina minata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Kuschelina minata?
5-6.5 mm
How do you identify Kuschelina minata?
distinguished mainly by the median elytral vitta which is straight, narrow, often interrupted and not curved at the apex towards the suture as it is in others of the group. Usually the markings are paler also, being reddish brown, and the beetle is smaller and not very convex. (emphasis added) true Kuschelina minata
Where is Kuschelina minata found?
Range: miniata proper - MS-FL-NC ( miniata species complex - e. US)