ColeopteraChrysomelidae – Leaf Beetles

Merobruchus placidus 0

Merobruchus placidus

This record describes Merobruchus placidus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

the most variable and widespread species in the genus on the North American continent. Type Locality: 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, KS to Costa Rica - Map

Diet and Behavior

Diet: Host plants: prairie acacia ( Acaciella (=Acacia) angustissima ) and Astragalus sp.

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Merobruchus placidus. 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.

Explore Coleoptera families and species →

Frequently Asked Questions About Merobruchus placidus 0

What is Merobruchus placidus 0?

Merobruchus placidus 0 (Merobruchus placidus) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.

How big is Merobruchus placidus 0?

length: 1.8-2.8 mm

How do you identify Merobruchus placidus 0?

the most variable and widespread species in the genus on the North American continent.

Where is Merobruchus placidus 0 found?

Range: AZ, KS to Costa Rica - Map

What does Merobruchus placidus 0 eat?

The diet of the Merobruchus placidus 0 includes Host plants: prairie acacia ( Acaciella (=Acacia) angustissima ) and Astragalus sp..