Nephus flavifrons
This record describes Nephus flavifrons (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's figures black with red apical spots (apical spots are yellow in southmost TX) commonly collected, wide spread sp.
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
Geographic Range
e. US, AZ (TX-FL-NY-IA, AZ) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: flavifrons (L). "yellow forehead"
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nephus flavifrons. 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 flavifrons (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz , Abigail Parker
Frequently Asked Questions About Nephus flavifrons
What is Nephus flavifrons?
Nephus flavifrons is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Nephus flavifrons?
1.5-2.0 mm (Horn 1895)
How do you identify Nephus flavifrons?
Gordon's figures black with red apical spots (apical spots are yellow in southmost TX)
Where is Nephus flavifrons found?
Range: e. US, AZ (TX-FL-NY-IA, AZ) - Map