Monoaster fulgidus
This record describes Monoaster fulgidus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
final key couplet: Elytra bright, shining blue Type Locality: Uvalde, Texas, D. J. and J. N. Knull
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Luperini
- Genus
- Monoaster
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w. & c. TX - Map ( 3 ) , ( 4 ) , ~5 known records, mostly Edwards Plateau (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2016)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: fulgidus (L). 'gleaming'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Monoaster fulgidus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monoaster fulgidus
What is Monoaster fulgidus?
Monoaster fulgidus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Monoaster fulgidus?
3.5 mm. long
How do you identify Monoaster fulgidus?
final key couplet: Elytra bright, shining blue
Where is Monoaster fulgidus found?
Range: w. & c. TX - Map ( 3 ) , ( 4 ) , ~5 known records, mostly Edwards Plateau (E.G. Riley, pers. comm. to MAQ, 2016)