Luperaltica nitida
This record describes Luperaltica nitida (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytra shining blue-green, very finely punctate Det. E. G. Riley Holotype male, allotype female, paratypes 3 males and 6 females, Chisos Mts., Texas, July 17, 1946, D. J. and J. N. Knull collectors, also, 16 males and 8 females, Chisos Mts., July 16 to 26, H. A. Wenzel collector.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Luperaltica
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Chisos Mts., Brewster Co., TX
Geographic Range
w.TX - known only from Chisos Mts., Brewster Co., w.TX (E. G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2026) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Luperaltica nitida Wilcox, 1953
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Luperaltica nitida. 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 Luperaltica nitida (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Luperaltica nitida
What is Luperaltica nitida?
Luperaltica nitida is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Luperaltica nitida?
Length 3.2 mm
How do you identify Luperaltica nitida?
elytra shining blue-green, very finely punctate Det. E. G. Riley
Where is Luperaltica nitida found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Chisos Mts., Brewster Co., TX |
| Range | w.TX - known only from Chisos Mts., Brewster Co., w.TX (E. G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2026) - Map |