Paria virginiae
This record describes Paria virginiae (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Det. Brad Barnd, 2011
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Eumolpinae
- Tribe
- Typophorini
- Genus
- Paria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
TX-FL-NC , n. to s. FL
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Black mangrove ( Avicennia germinans , Verbenaceae) ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Paria virginiae Wilcox 1957
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Paria virginiae. 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 Paria virginiae (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Paria virginiae
How do you identify Paria virginiae?
Det. Brad Barnd, 2011
Where is Paria virginiae found?
Range: TX-FL-NC , n. to s. FL
What does Paria virginiae eat?
The diet of the Paria virginiae includes Black mangrove ( Avicennia germinans , Verbenaceae) ( 3 ).