Mordellina testacea
This record describes Mordellina testacea (species). Recorded family: Mordellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Posterior tibiae with two parallel ridges, subapical not included, upper one much longer and extending almost across outer face of tibiae, first segment of posterior tarsi with three and second with two ridges. Entire body pale brownish yellow. Slender, parallel.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Mordellidae (Tumbling Flower Beetles)
- Tribe
- Mordellistenini
- Genus
- Mordellina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US, s. Ont. - Map , apparently common in Texas
Seasonal Activity
18 spmns coll'ed Apr-July in c. TX ( 3 )
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Taken from flowers of Solidago
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mordellina testacea. 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 Mordellina testacea (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Moyer; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Mordellina testacea
What is Mordellina testacea?
Mordellina testacea is a species in the family Mordellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mordellina testacea?
2.3 mm
How do you identify Mordellina testacea?
Posterior tibiae with two parallel ridges, subapical not included, upper one much longer and extending almost across outer face of tibiae, first segment of posterior tarsi with three and second with two ridges. Entire body pale brownish yellow. Slender, parallel.
Where is Mordellina testacea found?
Range: e. US, s. Ont. - Map , apparently common in Texas
When is Mordellina testacea active?
Mordellina testacea: seasonal activity - 18 spmns coll'ed Apr-July in c. TX ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Mordellina testacea?
Taken from flowers of Solidago