Nephus alyssae
This record describes Nephus alyssae (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The small size, elytron with single golden central spot, and dorso-ventrally flattened body distinguishes N. alyssae from any other US species of Nephus . (Golia & Golia 2014) TYPE Type Locality: Holotype, female with label data Florida, Palm Beach Co., Lake Worth, Hypoluxo, Hypoluxo Scrub N.A.; November 10, 2009; Vince Golia; ‘sweeping’, 26.566642,-80.056759” deposited in FSCA. All ten spmns were coll'ed while sweeping plants along roadsides where the land is disturbed in three counties known to have many exotic species. As with Nephus (Sidis) binaevatus (Mulsant) in California ( ), N. alyssae may yet be recognized as an immigrant species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scymninae
- Tribe
- Scymnini
- Genus
- Nephus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
coll'ed while sweeping plants along roadsides where the land is disturbed (Golia & Golia 2014)
Geographic Range
Known only from se. FL (Palm Beach & Dade Cos.) (Golia & Golia 2014)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is believed that all Nephus spp. are predators of mealy bugs.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Nephus alyssae Golia & Golia, 2014
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nephus alyssae. 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 Nephus alyssae (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Nephus alyssae
What is Nephus alyssae?
Nephus alyssae is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Nephus alyssae?
Female Body: 1.47–1.87 mm long (Golia & Golia 2014)
How do you identify Nephus alyssae?
The small size, elytron with single golden central spot, and dorso-ventrally flattened body distinguishes N. alyssae from any other US species of Nephus . (Golia & Golia 2014) TYPE
Where is Nephus alyssae found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | coll'ed while sweeping plants along roadsides where the land is disturbed (Golia & Golia 2014) |
| Range | Known only from se. FL (Palm Beach & Dade Cos.) (Golia & Golia 2014) |
What is the life cycle of a Nephus alyssae?
It is believed that all Nephus spp. are predators of mealy bugs.