Phaedon viridis
This record describes Phaedon viridis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Det. E.G. Riley, 2009
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chrysomelinae
- Tribe
- Chrysomelini
- Genus
- Phaedon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA (TX-FL-NB-SK) - Map , most records sc US
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Brassicaceae, including Virginia pepperweed ( Lepidium virginicum ) and the introduced Barbarea vulgaris and Brassica rapa ( 3 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phaedon viridis. 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 Phaedon viridis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phaedon viridis
How do you identify Phaedon viridis?
Det. E.G. Riley, 2009
Where is Phaedon viridis found?
Range: e. NA (TX-FL-NB-SK) - Map , most records sc US
What does Phaedon viridis eat?
The diet of the Phaedon viridis includes Brassicaceae, including Virginia pepperweed ( Lepidium virginicum ) and the introduced Barbarea vulgaris and Brassica rapa ( 3 ).