Oxacis taeniata
This record describes Oxacis taeniata (species). Recorded family: Oedemeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Oxacis taeniata (Oxacis taeniata) is a species in the family Oedemeridae, commonly known as false blister beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Oedemerinae, tribe Asclerini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Tenebrionoidea. This species belongs to the genus Oxacis. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: ~9 mm. It is found in likely breeds in saline situations (larvae unknown) ; adults found during the day on sea oats ( Uniola paniculata ) and Yucca flowers. Active during adults Mar-Jul.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Oedemeridae (False Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Oedemerinae
- Tribe
- Asclerini
- Genus
- Oxacis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
likely breeds in saline situations (larvae unknown) ; adults found during the day on sea oats ( Uniola paniculata ) and Yucca flowers
Geographic Range
VA-FL (along the coast) / Bahamas - Map
Seasonal Activity
adults Mar-Jul ( 4 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: known host: oleander ( 4 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Oxacis taeniata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxacis taeniata
What is Oxacis taeniata?
Oxacis taeniata is a species in the family Oedemeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Oxacis taeniata?
~9 mm
Where is Oxacis taeniata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | likely breeds in saline situations (larvae unknown) ; adults found during the day on sea oats ( Uniola paniculata ) and Yucca flowers |
| Range | VA-FL (along the coast) / Bahamas - Map |
What does Oxacis taeniata eat?
The diet of the Oxacis taeniata includes known host: oleander ( 4 ).
When is Oxacis taeniata active?
Oxacis taeniata: seasonal activity - adults Mar-Jul ( 4 ).