Pachybrachis nigricornis
This record describes Pachybrachis nigricornis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
P. nigricornis autolycus Fall - striped, other forms mostly or entirely black
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
Widely dist. throughout N. Amer. (except apparently CA & NV) ,
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pachybrachis nigricornis. 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 nigricornis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Pachybrachis nigricornis
What is Pachybrachis nigricornis?
Pachybrachis nigricornis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Pachybrachis nigricornis?
Length 3.0-3.4 mm
How do you identify Pachybrachis nigricornis?
P. nigricornis autolycus Fall - striped, other forms mostly or entirely black
Where is Pachybrachis nigricornis found?
Range: Widely dist. throughout N. Amer. (except apparently CA & NV) ,