Phodaga alticeps
This record describes Phodaga alticeps (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Meloidae (Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Meloinae
- Tribe
- Eupomphini
- Genus
- Phodaga
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se.CA-w.AZ & adjacent Mexico
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Adults feed on Tiquilia palmeri (Palmer's Coldenia) and T. plicata (Fanleaf crinklemat)...also occasionally on Cryptantha spp.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phodaga alticeps LeConte 1858
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phodaga alticeps. 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 Phodaga alticeps (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Hartmut Wisch , Aaron Schusteff , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Phodaga alticeps
How big is Phodaga alticeps?
8-25 mm
Where is Phodaga alticeps found?
Range: se.CA-w.AZ & adjacent Mexico
What does Phodaga alticeps eat?
The diet of the Phodaga alticeps includes Adults feed on Tiquilia palmeri (Palmer's Coldenia) and T. plicata (Fanleaf crinklemat)...also occasionally on Cryptantha spp..