Merobruchus julianus
This record describes Merobruchus julianus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Lectotype Locality: San Ignacio, Zapata Co., Texas
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Bruchinae
- Tribe
- Bruchini
- Genus
- Merobruchus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ to c. TX / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Senegalia (=Acacia) berlandieri, S. greggi, S. roemeriana, S. wrightii and Vachellia (=Acacia) rigidula
Life History
Natural enemies.- Eupelmus cushmani, E. cyaniceps; Stenocorse bruchivora; Urosigalphus bruchi, U. bruchivorus , and three unidentified spp. of Eurytoma .
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Merobruchus julianus. 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 Merobruchus julianus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Merobruchus julianus
What is Merobruchus julianus?
Merobruchus julianus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Merobruchus julianus?
Body length 3.2-5.5 mm
Where is Merobruchus julianus found?
Range: AZ to c. TX / Mex. - Map
What does Merobruchus julianus eat?
The diet of the Merobruchus julianus includes Senegalia (=Acacia) berlandieri, S. greggi, S. roemeriana, S. wrightii and Vachellia (=Acacia) rigidula.
What is the life cycle of a Merobruchus julianus?
Natural enemies.- Eupelmus cushmani, E. cyaniceps; Stenocorse bruchivora; Urosigalphus bruchi, U. bruchivorus , and three unidentified spp. of Eurytoma .