Pachybrachis m-nigrum
This record describes Pachybrachis m-nigrum (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. E. G. Riley, 1998 This species was often found misidentified in collections as P. intricatus or P. picturatus . It cannot be reliably distinguished from P. deceptor except by examination of the male genitalia. On average, however, there is a tendency for the overall size to be smaller and for the yellow markings on the body and legs to be more extensive, but these differences are not definitive.
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
MO-SC-ME-MI, range overlaps some w/ P. deceptor in the west
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pachybrachis m-nigrum. 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 Pachybrachis m-nigrum (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Pachybrachis m-nigrum
What is Pachybrachis m-nigrum?
Pachybrachis m-nigrum is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Pachybrachis m-nigrum?
Length 2.46–3.16 mm
How do you identify Pachybrachis m-nigrum?
Det. E. G. Riley, 1998 This species was often found misidentified in collections as P. intricatus or P. picturatus . It cannot be reliably distinguished from P. deceptor except by examination of the male genitalia. On average, however, there is a tendency for the overall size to be smaller and for the yellow markings on the body and legs to be more extensive, but these differences are not definitive.
Where is Pachybrachis m-nigrum found?
Range: MO-SC-ME-MI, range overlaps some w/ P. deceptor in the west