Macrosiagon excavata
This record describes Macrosiagon excavata (species). Recorded family: Ripiphoridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytral pattern constant as margins, base, and longitudinal vitta short from base dark on pale ground; head and pronotum red to black. Pronotum with two long, triangular depressions (name!)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Ripiphoridae (Wedge-shaped Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Ripiphorinae
- Genus
- Macrosiagon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Mexico into southern US
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Macrosiagon excavata (Champion, 1891)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Macrosiagon excavata. 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 Macrosiagon excavata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche
Frequently Asked Questions About Macrosiagon excavata
What is Macrosiagon excavata?
Macrosiagon excavata is a species in the family Ripiphoridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Macrosiagon excavata?
4.5 - 9 mm
How do you identify Macrosiagon excavata?
Elytral pattern constant as margins, base, and longitudinal vitta short from base dark on pale ground; head and pronotum red to black. Pronotum with two long, triangular depressions (name!)
Where is Macrosiagon excavata found?
Range: Mexico into southern US