Metachroma suturale
This record describes Metachroma suturale (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
either entirely piceous (glossy black) or reddish brown with black sutural darkening of varying width (see type), lateral stria not extending up on inner side of humerus - Det. E. G. Riley, 2010 Type Locality: Texas, Mr. Haldeman.
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
AZ to c. TX - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: large series in Texas coll'ed from Juniperus (Cupressaceae) ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Metachroma suturale J. L. LeConte, 1858
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Metachroma suturale. 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 suturale (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Maury Heiman
Frequently Asked Questions About Metachroma suturale
What is Metachroma suturale?
Metachroma suturale is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Metachroma suturale?
4.8 to 6.4 mm
How do you identify Metachroma suturale?
either entirely piceous (glossy black) or reddish brown with black sutural darkening of varying width (see type), lateral stria not extending up on inner side of humerus - Det. E. G. Riley, 2010
Where is Metachroma suturale found?
Range: AZ to c. TX - Map
What does Metachroma suturale eat?
The diet of the Metachroma suturale includes large series in Texas coll'ed from Juniperus (Cupressaceae) ( 4 ).