Mulsantina cyathigera
This record describes Mulsantina cyathigera (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon't figures - Color yellow except pronotum with median, brown, M-shaped marking; elytron with 6 brown spots (Fig. 688 f), spots sometimes reduced
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Coccinellinae
- Genus
- Mulsantina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se AZ to C. Amer. - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: cyathigera (G). 'old cup' (?)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mulsantina cyathigera. 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 Mulsantina cyathigera (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by James Bailey
Frequently Asked Questions About Mulsantina cyathigera
What is Mulsantina cyathigera?
Mulsantina cyathigera is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mulsantina cyathigera?
Length 3.32 to 4.65 mm
How do you identify Mulsantina cyathigera?
Gordon't figures - Color yellow except pronotum with median, brown, M-shaped marking; elytron with 6 brown spots (Fig. 688 f), spots sometimes reduced
Where is Mulsantina cyathigera found?
Range: se AZ to C. Amer. - Map