Luperaltica semiflava
This record describes Luperaltica semiflava (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Oblong; elytra metallic blue-green; upper surface highly polished throughout ; elytral punctation indistinct Det. E. G. Riley, 2011 Type Locality: Dripping Springs, Organ Mtns, sc. New Mexico
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
Geographic Range
sc. NM to w. TX (incl. Davis and Chisos mtns.) - Map , ultra common in Davis Mts. (E. G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2026)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
recorded from threadleaf snakeweed ( Gutierrezia microcephala , Asteraceae) ( 3 ) ( 6 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Luperaltica semiflava. 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 semiflava (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Edward Ruden
Frequently Asked Questions About Luperaltica semiflava
What is Luperaltica semiflava?
Luperaltica semiflava is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Luperaltica semiflava?
3 mm
How do you identify Luperaltica semiflava?
Oblong; elytra metallic blue-green; upper surface highly polished throughout ; elytral punctation indistinct Det. E. G. Riley, 2011
Where is Luperaltica semiflava found?
Range: sc. NM to w. TX (incl. Davis and Chisos mtns.) - Map , ultra common in Davis Mts. (E. G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2026)
What is the life cycle of a Luperaltica semiflava?
recorded from threadleaf snakeweed ( Gutierrezia microcephala , Asteraceae) ( 3 ) ( 6 )