Myrmex texanus
This record describes Myrmex texanus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The form of thorax and antennal club, the frontal fovea and feeble punctuation of elytra distinguish this species. (Schaeffer 1907) Type Locality: Esperanza Ranch, Brownsville, Cameron Co., Texas (Schaeffer 1907)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Curculioninae
- Tribe
- Otidocephalini
- Genus
- Myrmex
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
coastal s. TX - Map
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Myrmex texanus. 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 Myrmex texanus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Myrmex texanus
What is Myrmex texanus?
Myrmex texanus is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Myrmex texanus?
5 mm (Schaeffer 1907)
How do you identify Myrmex texanus?
The form of thorax and antennal club, the frontal fovea and feeble punctuation of elytra distinguish this species. (Schaeffer 1907)
Where is Myrmex texanus found?
Range: coastal s. TX - Map