Ophryastes nivosus
This record describes Ophryastes nivosus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The male is pure white throughout; the female is feebly mottled with faint oval annular spots, each centered on a strial puncture. In the female the median sulcus of the rostrum is longer than in the male, extending somewhat indefinitely upon the front. Det. C. W. O'Brien, 2009 Type Locality: Phoenix, Arizona; a single pair.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Entiminae
- Tribe
- Ophryastini
- Genus
- Ophryastes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ to w. TX - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ophryastes nivosus (Fall 1910)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ophryastes nivosus. 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 Ophryastes nivosus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Ophryastes nivosus
What is Ophryastes nivosus?
Ophryastes nivosus is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ophryastes nivosus?
12-15 mm
How do you identify Ophryastes nivosus?
The male is pure white throughout; the female is feebly mottled with faint oval annular spots, each centered on a strial puncture. In the female the median sulcus of the rostrum is longer than in the male, extending somewhat indefinitely upon the front. Det. C. W. O'Brien, 2009
Where is Ophryastes nivosus found?
Range: AZ to w. TX - Map