Neltumius arizonensis
This record describes Neltumius arizonensis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Black variegated with white and ochreous pubescence Type Locality: Pinal Mountains, Gila Co., Arizona
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Bruchinae
- Tribe
- Bruchini
- Genus
- Neltumius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
sw US (s.CA to w.TX, s.NV) / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Host plants: Prosopis velutina, P. glandulosa glandulosa, P. glandulosa torreyana .
Life History
Natural enemies: Urosigalphus arizonensis Crawford, U. bruchivorus Crawford (Braconidae). This bruchid is also listed as the prey of Cerceris truncata Cameron (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Neltumius arizonensis. 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 Neltumius arizonensis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Lynette Elliott , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Neltumius arizonensis
What is Neltumius arizonensis?
Neltumius arizonensis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Neltumius arizonensis?
length 2.5–4.0 mm
How do you identify Neltumius arizonensis?
Black variegated with white and ochreous pubescence
Where is Neltumius arizonensis found?
Range: sw US (s.CA to w.TX, s.NV) / Mex. - Map
What does Neltumius arizonensis eat?
The diet of the Neltumius arizonensis includes Host plants: Prosopis velutina, P. glandulosa glandulosa, P. glandulosa torreyana ..
What is the life cycle of a Neltumius arizonensis?
Natural enemies: Urosigalphus arizonensis Crawford, U. bruchivorus Crawford (Braconidae). This bruchid is also listed as the prey of Cerceris truncata Cameron (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae)