Monomacra bumeliae
This record describes Monomacra bumeliae (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
An inconspicuous species but easy known from the described species by the color and markings. The dark cloud on each elytron is in some specimens better defined than in others and the markings of the thorax are at best indistinct and become broader and transversely confluent. (Schaeffer 1905) Type Locality: Esperanza Ranch, Brownsville, Texas (Schaeffer 1905) Never seen again in USA since Schaeffer's day. (E. G. Riley pers. comm. to MAQ, 2010)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Monomacra
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / ne. Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Beaten from branches of a species of Bumelia in July and August. (Schaeffer 1905)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Monomacra bumeliae. 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 Monomacra bumeliae
What is Monomacra bumeliae?
Monomacra bumeliae is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Monomacra bumeliae?
2.5-3 mm (Schaeffer 1905)
How do you identify Monomacra bumeliae?
An inconspicuous species but easy known from the described species by the color and markings. The dark cloud on each elytron is in some specimens better defined than in others and the markings of the thorax are at best indistinct and become broader and transversely confluent. (Schaeffer 1905)
Where is Monomacra bumeliae found?
Range: southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / ne. Mex. - Map
What is the life cycle of a Monomacra bumeliae?
Beaten from branches of a species of Bumelia in July and August. (Schaeffer 1905)