Neolema cordata
This record describes Neolema cordata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytral anterior maculae coalesce to form a heart-shaped spot
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Criocerinae
- Tribe
- Lemini
- Genus
- Neolema
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e.US to e.TX - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: asso. w/ spp. of Commelina (Commelinaceae) ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Neolema cordata R. White 1993
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Neolema cordata. 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 Neolema cordata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by john and jane balaban; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Neolema cordata
What is Neolema cordata?
Neolema cordata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Neolema cordata?
elytral anterior maculae coalesce to form a heart-shaped spot
Where is Neolema cordata found?
Range: e.US to e.TX - Map
What does Neolema cordata eat?
The diet of the Neolema cordata includes asso. w/ spp. of Commelina (Commelinaceae) ( 3 ).