Mastogenius robustus
This record describes Mastogenius robustus (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Form of subcyaneus but larger more robust and surface less shining, dark aeneous. (Schaeffer 1905) Posterior boarder of hind coxal plates broadly arcuate internally, third joint of antennae distinctly shorter than the fourth, hut much longer than the second, front not impressed. (Schaeffer 1905) Type Locality: Palmerlee, Cochise Co., Arizona
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Buprestoidea
- Family
- Buprestidae (Metallic Wood-boring Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Polycestinae
- Tribe
- Haplostethini
- Genus
- Mastogenius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se AZ / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
asso. w/ oak and mesquite
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mastogenius robustus. 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 Mastogenius robustus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Richard L. Westcott; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Mastogenius robustus
What is Mastogenius robustus?
Mastogenius robustus is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mastogenius robustus?
3.2-3.7 mm (Schaeffer 1905)
How do you identify Mastogenius robustus?
Form of subcyaneus but larger more robust and surface less shining, dark aeneous. (Schaeffer 1905) Posterior boarder of hind coxal plates broadly arcuate internally, third joint of antennae distinctly shorter than the fourth, hut much longer than the second, front not impressed. (Schaeffer 1905)
Where is Mastogenius robustus found?
Range: se AZ / Mex. - Map
What is the life cycle of a Mastogenius robustus?
asso. w/ oak and mesquite