Mastogenius subcyaneus
This record describes Mastogenius subcyaneus (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Mastogenius subcyaneus (Mastogenius subcyaneus) is a species in the family Buprestidae, commonly known as metallic wood-boring beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Polycestinae, tribe Haplostethini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Buprestoidea. This species belongs to the genus Mastogenius. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 2-3 mm. Active during Apr-Jun (BG data).
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
e US (NY-FL to MO-OK-TX) - Map
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Jun ( 5 ) (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Larvae in Quercus , adults also on Cornus
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Mastogenius subcyaneus (LeConte 1859)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mastogenius subcyaneus. 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 subcyaneus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joshua P. Basham; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Mastogenius subcyaneus
What is Mastogenius subcyaneus?
Mastogenius subcyaneus is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mastogenius subcyaneus?
2-3 mm
Where is Mastogenius subcyaneus found?
Range: e US (NY-FL to MO-OK-TX) - Map
What does Mastogenius subcyaneus eat?
The diet of the Mastogenius subcyaneus includes Larvae in Quercus , adults also on Cornus.
When is Mastogenius subcyaneus active?
Mastogenius subcyaneus: seasonal activity - Apr-Jun ( 5 ) (BG data).