Paracotalpa deserta
This record describes Paracotalpa deserta (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Flights occur in a narrow window, later in the day than other related species, usually corresponding with the hottest portion of the day (typically mid to late afternoon).
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Rutelinae
- Tribe
- Rutelini
- Genus
- Paracotalpa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Sandy washes and alluvial desert flats.
Geographic Range
s.CA (Imperial Co.) - Map
Seasonal Activity
Early spring (mid Feb in much of our area).
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Paracotalpa deserta Saylor, 1940
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Paracotalpa deserta. 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 Paracotalpa deserta (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by William B. Warner; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Aaron Schusteff , James Bailey
Frequently Asked Questions About Paracotalpa deserta
What is Paracotalpa deserta?
Paracotalpa deserta is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Paracotalpa deserta found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Sandy washes and alluvial desert flats. |
| Range | s.CA (Imperial Co.) - Map |
When is Paracotalpa deserta active?
Paracotalpa deserta: seasonal activity - Early spring (mid Feb in much of our area)..