Phanaeus amithaon
This record describes Phanaeus amithaon (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scarabaeinae
- Tribe
- Phanaeini
- Genus
- Phanaeus (Rainbow Scarabs)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
common in pastures
Geographic Range
se AZ to s.Mex. - Map , most common across c.Mex.
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Jun-Aug
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phanaeus amithaon Harold 1875
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phanaeus amithaon. 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 Phanaeus amithaon (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by William Ericson; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phanaeus amithaon
How big is Phanaeus amithaon?
13-25 mm
Where is Phanaeus amithaon found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | common in pastures |
| Range | se AZ to s.Mex. - Map , most common across c.Mex. |
When is Phanaeus amithaon active?
Phanaeus amithaon: seasonal activity - mostly: Jun-Aug.