Meloe dianella
This record describes Meloe dianella (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Meloidae (Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Meloinae
- Genus
- Meloe (Oil Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
transcontinental: NS south through the Ohio River valley and west to ID & BC
Seasonal Activity
active primarily in spring
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Meloe dianella Pinto & Selander 1970
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Meloe dianella. 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 Meloe dianella (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Meloe dianella
How big is Meloe dianella?
6‒11 mm
Where is Meloe dianella found?
Range: transcontinental: NS south through the Ohio River valley and west to ID & BC
When is Meloe dianella active?
Meloe dianella: seasonal activity - active primarily in spring.