Pharaxonotha floridana
This record describes Pharaxonotha floridana (species). Recorded family: Erotylidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Erotylidae (Pleasing Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Xenoscelinae
- Genus
- Pharaxonotha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
endemic to FL peninsula - Map
Seasonal Activity
Dec-May
Diet and Behavior
Diet: pollen of coontie, a native cycad in Florida ( Zamia pumila , Zamiaceae) ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pharaxonotha floridana (Casey 1890)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pharaxonotha floridana. 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 Pharaxonotha floridana (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Pharaxonotha floridana
Where is Pharaxonotha floridana found?
Range: endemic to FL peninsula - Map
What does Pharaxonotha floridana eat?
The diet of the Pharaxonotha floridana includes pollen of coontie, a native cycad in Florida ( Zamia pumila , Zamiaceae) ( 3 ).
When is Pharaxonotha floridana active?
Pharaxonotha floridana: seasonal activity - Dec-May.