Nemognatha bifoveata
This record describes Nemognatha bifoveata (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Allied to N. piazata but readily distinguished from that species by its shorter galeae, shorter metatibial spurs, erect elytral pubescence and sparser punctation, different color pattern, and deep, elongate oval foveae on the fourth and fifth abdominal sterna of the males. This species seems to be quite distinct. It is unusual among nemognathines in two respects, first, that there is extremely little color variation, and second, that the adults occur on Monarda . This is the only species known to me which feeds on that genus of plants . (emphasis added) Holotype male taken at College Station, Brazos County, Texas, May 20, 1933, by H. J. Reinhard, deposited with the allotype and several paratypes in the collection of Texas A. & M. College.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Meloidae (Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Nemognathinae
- Tribe
- Nemognathini
- Genus
- Nemognatha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
sw US (se.CA-TX-s.KS.s.UT) / Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Aug
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Flower hosts of adults: Horsemint ( Monarda sp.); Monarda citriodora; Monarda pectinata; Monarda punctata ; Cats Claw; Daisy. Bee hosts of larvae: unknown.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Nemognatha (Nemognatha) bifoveata Enns 1956
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nemognatha bifoveata. 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 Nemognatha bifoveata (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Nemognatha bifoveata
What is Nemognatha bifoveata?
Nemognatha bifoveata is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Nemognatha bifoveata?
6-12 mm
How do you identify Nemognatha bifoveata?
Allied to N. piazata but readily distinguished from that species by its shorter galeae, shorter metatibial spurs, erect elytral pubescence and sparser punctation, different color pattern, and deep, elongate oval foveae on the fourth and fifth abdominal sterna of the males. This species seems to be quite distinct. It is unusual among nemognathines in two respects, first, that there is extremely little color variation, and second, that the adults occur on Monarda . This is the only species known to me which feeds on that genus of plants . (emphasis added)
Where is Nemognatha bifoveata found?
Range: sw US (se.CA-TX-s.KS.s.UT) / Mex. - Map
When is Nemognatha bifoveata active?
Nemognatha bifoveata: seasonal activity - Apr-Aug.
What is the life cycle of a Nemognatha bifoveata?
Flower hosts of adults: Horsemint ( Monarda sp.); Monarda citriodora; Monarda pectinata; Monarda punctata ; Cats Claw; Daisy. Bee hosts of larvae: unknown.