ColeopteraChrysomelidae – Leaf Beetles

Pachybrachis fortis

This record describes Pachybrachis fortis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Pachybrachis fortis - Pachybrachis fortis
Contributed by Mike Quinn

from Fall's description: Large, robust, yellow, with standard markings, in pale brown, rather lightly indicated on the elytra; luster dull, surface with very fine, short and sparse pubescence; no ocular lines; front claws of male rather large. last key couplet: Eyes in male separated by scarcely or but little more than the length of the basal antennal joint; prothorax pale yellow with faint brown markings

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Coleoptera (Beetles)
Suborder
Polyphaga
Superfamily
Chrysomeloidea
Family
Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
Subfamily
Cryptocephalinae
Tribe
Cryptocephalini
Genus
Pachybrachis (Scriptured Leaf Beetles)

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Geographic Range

AZ, w. TX ( 3 ) (BG data)

Diet and Behavior

Life History

coll'ed from Mimosa sp. (Fabaceae) ( 4 )

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: Pachybrachis fortis Fall 1915

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pachybrachis fortis. 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.

Explore Coleoptera families and species →

Photos of Pachybrachis fortis (5)

Pachybrachis fortis - photo 1
Contributed by Mike Quinn
Pachybrachis fortis - photo 2
Contributed by Mike Quinn
Pachybrachis fortis - photo 3
Contributed by Mike Quinn
Pachybrachis fortis - photo 4
Contributed by Mike Quinn
Pachybrachis fortis - photo 5
Contributed by Mike Quinn

Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn

Frequently Asked Questions About Pachybrachis fortis

What is Pachybrachis fortis?

Pachybrachis fortis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.

How big is Pachybrachis fortis?

4.5 to 5 mm (large)

How do you identify Pachybrachis fortis?

from Fall's description: Large, robust, yellow, with standard markings, in pale brown, rather lightly indicated on the elytra; luster dull, surface with very fine, short and sparse pubescence; no ocular lines; front claws of male rather large. last key couplet: Eyes in male separated by scarcely or but little more than the length of the basal antennal joint; prothorax pale yellow with faint brown markings

Where is Pachybrachis fortis found?

Range: AZ, w. TX ( 3 ) (BG data)

What is the life cycle of a Pachybrachis fortis?

coll'ed from Mimosa sp. (Fabaceae) ( 4 )

How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.