Melanophila consputa
This record describes Melanophila consputa (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Buprestoidea
- Family
- Buprestidae (Metallic Wood-boring Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Buprestinae
- Tribe
- Melanophilini
- Genus
- Melanophila
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w. US (CA-TX-SD-WA) / Mex. , (TX record from )
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Jun-Jul (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: larvae host in Pinus spp. and other hard woods, adults also feed on termites
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Melanophila consputa LeConte 1857
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Melanophila consputa. 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 Melanophila consputa (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joshua P. Basham; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , Edward Ruden
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanophila consputa
How big is Melanophila consputa?
variable:
Where is Melanophila consputa found?
Range: w. US (CA-TX-SD-WA) / Mex. , (TX record from )
What does Melanophila consputa eat?
The diet of the Melanophila consputa includes larvae host in Pinus spp. and other hard woods, adults also feed on termites.
When is Melanophila consputa active?
Melanophila consputa: seasonal activity - mostly: Jun-Jul (BG data).