Pachybrachis mercurialis
This record describes Pachybrachis mercurialis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Light yellow pale brown punctate integuments polished; elytra immaculate; prothorax with small diffuse pale brownish clouds.
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
CA, CO, ID, UT
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pachybrachis mercurialis Fall 1915
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pachybrachis mercurialis. 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 Pachybrachis mercurialis
What is Pachybrachis mercurialis?
Pachybrachis mercurialis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Pachybrachis mercurialis?
avg length: 2.75 mm
How do you identify Pachybrachis mercurialis?
Light yellow pale brown punctate integuments polished; elytra immaculate; prothorax with small diffuse pale brownish clouds.
Where is Pachybrachis mercurialis found?
Range: CA, CO, ID, UT