Microrhopala xerene
This record describes Microrhopala xerene (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The eight-segmented antennae, the red stripe and subapical spot on each elytron, and the serrate elytral margins distinguish this species ( Species profile )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cassidinae
- Tribe
- Chalepini
- Genus
- Microrhopala
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
widely dist (CA-FL-NB-AB) (rare in s. US)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Various Asteraceae (known hosts include a dozen spp. of 6 genera)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Microrhopala xerene. 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 Microrhopala xerene (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Matthew Roth; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , James Bailey
Frequently Asked Questions About Microrhopala xerene
What is Microrhopala xerene?
Microrhopala xerene is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Microrhopala xerene?
~3 mm
How do you identify Microrhopala xerene?
The eight-segmented antennae, the red stripe and subapical spot on each elytron, and the serrate elytral margins distinguish this species ( Species profile )
Where is Microrhopala xerene found?
Range: widely dist (CA-FL-NB-AB) (rare in s. US)
What does Microrhopala xerene eat?
The diet of the Microrhopala xerene includes Various Asteraceae (known hosts include a dozen spp. of 6 genera).