Megacerus leucospilus
This record describes Megacerus leucospilus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
red and white alternating stripes on elytra Type Locality: Mexico, Veracruz
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Bruchinae
- Tribe
- Bruchini
- Genus
- Megacerus (Large-horned Bruchids)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
coastal habitats
Geographic Range
coastal LA-TX to C. Amer. / HI - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: morning-glory - Ipomoea spp. (Convolvulaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: leucospilus (G). 'white spot'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Megacerus leucospilus. 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 Megacerus leucospilus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Megacerus leucospilus
What is Megacerus leucospilus?
Megacerus leucospilus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Megacerus leucospilus?
Body length 3.4–4.2 mm
How do you identify Megacerus leucospilus?
red and white alternating stripes on elytra
Where is Megacerus leucospilus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | coastal habitats |
| Range | coastal LA-TX to C. Amer. / HI - Map |
What does Megacerus leucospilus eat?
The diet of the Megacerus leucospilus includes morning-glory - Ipomoea spp. (Convolvulaceae).