Lytta sayi
This record describes Lytta sayi (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Meloidae (Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Meloinae
- Genus
- Lytta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
NB‒ON to PA‒IL‒TX‒WY
Seasonal Activity
18.v-27.vii
Diet and Behavior
Diet: beetles feed on various flowers; larvae reared from Agapostemon virescens cells
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lytta sayi LeConte 1853
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lytta sayi. 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 Lytta sayi (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Ted Kropiewnicki , v belov , marcie oconnor , PaleoJon
Frequently Asked Questions About Lytta sayi
How big is Lytta sayi?
13‒22 mm
Where is Lytta sayi found?
Range: NB‒ON to PA‒IL‒TX‒WY
What does Lytta sayi eat?
The diet of the Lytta sayi includes beetles feed on various flowers; larvae reared from Agapostemon virescens cells.
When is Lytta sayi active?
Lytta sayi: seasonal activity - 18.v-27.vii.