Phyllobaenus humeralis
This record describes Phyllobaenus humeralis (species). Recorded family: Cleridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Phyllobaenus humeralis (Phyllobaenus humeralis) is a species in the family Cleridae, commonly known as checkered beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Hydnocerinae, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Cleroidea. This species belongs to the genus Phyllobaenus. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 3.5-5.5 mm. Active during mostly May-July in NA (BG data) mostly Apr-May in c. TX (based on 112 spmns).
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cleroidea
- Family
- Cleridae (Checkered Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Hydnocerinae
- Genus
- Phyllobaenus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA to SK (TX-FL-ME-SK) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 )
Seasonal Activity
mostly May-July in NA (BG data) mostly Apr-May in c. TX (based on 112 spmns) ( 5 )
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Breeds in the trunks and limbs of oaks and hickory (Mawdsley, 2002), ( 5 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Humeralis is a reference to the reddish patch on the humeral angle of the elytra: (humeral mark not present on all individuals)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllobaenus humeralis. 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 Phyllobaenus humeralis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllobaenus humeralis
What is Phyllobaenus humeralis?
Phyllobaenus humeralis is a species in the family Cleridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllobaenus humeralis?
3.5-5.5 mm
Where is Phyllobaenus humeralis found?
Range: e. NA to SK (TX-FL-ME-SK) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 )
When is Phyllobaenus humeralis active?
Phyllobaenus humeralis: seasonal activity - mostly May-July in NA (BG data) mostly Apr-May in c. TX (based on 112 spmns) ( 5 ).
What is the life cycle of a Phyllobaenus humeralis?
Breeds in the trunks and limbs of oaks and hickory (Mawdsley, 2002), ( 5 )