Metachroma pellucidum
This record describes Metachroma pellucidum (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Apparently there is little variation in its coloring. It can be distinguished by the convex shape of the elytra, without a conspicuous intrahumeral sulcus, by the fine punctation on the pronotum, and by the very fine elytral punctation that fades away at the sides and apex. (Blake 1970) Det. E. G. Riley, 2010 Type Locality: North Carolina
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Eumolpinae
- Tribe
- Typophorini
- Genus
- Metachroma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
mostly coastal states (TX-FL-NY), but can be found inland to IN - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: asso. w/ oaks - Quercus (Fagaceae) ( 5 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Metachroma pellucidum Crotch 1873
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Metachroma pellucidum. 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 Metachroma pellucidum (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Metachroma pellucidum
What is Metachroma pellucidum?
Metachroma pellucidum is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Metachroma pellucidum?
Length: 3.4-3.8 mm
How do you identify Metachroma pellucidum?
Apparently there is little variation in its coloring. It can be distinguished by the convex shape of the elytra, without a conspicuous intrahumeral sulcus, by the fine punctation on the pronotum, and by the very fine elytral punctation that fades away at the sides and apex. (Blake 1970) Det. E. G. Riley, 2010
Where is Metachroma pellucidum found?
Range: mostly coastal states (TX-FL-NY), but can be found inland to IN - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 )
What does Metachroma pellucidum eat?
The diet of the Metachroma pellucidum includes asso. w/ oaks - Quercus (Fagaceae) ( 5 ).