Micracisella opacicollis
This record describes Micracisella opacicollis (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scolytinae
- Tribe
- Micracidini
- Genus
- Micracisella
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Widely distributed in eastern and southern states
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Oak, maple, redbud, and cypress
Life History
Breeds in the pith of dead twigs, sprouts, and shoots
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Micracisella opacicollis. 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 Micracisella opacicollis (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Micracisella opacicollis
How big is Micracisella opacicollis?
1.7-1.9mm
Where is Micracisella opacicollis found?
Range: Widely distributed in eastern and southern states
What does Micracisella opacicollis eat?
The diet of the Micracisella opacicollis includes Oak, maple, redbud, and cypress.
What is the life cycle of a Micracisella opacicollis?
Breeds in the pith of dead twigs, sprouts, and shoots