Phyllophaga aemula
This record describes Phyllophaga aemula (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Variation primarily in body color (from light to dark or reddish brown) Type Locality: northern Georgia
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melolonthinae
- Tribe
- Rhizotrogini
- Genus
- Phyllophaga (May Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e US (OK-TX-FL-NJ) - Map , NJ to Brazos R., TX
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Oct in FL
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga aemula. 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 Phyllophaga aemula (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga aemula
What is Phyllophaga aemula?
Phyllophaga aemula is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllophaga aemula?
17-25 mm
How do you identify Phyllophaga aemula?
Variation primarily in body color (from light to dark or reddish brown)
Where is Phyllophaga aemula found?
Range: e US (OK-TX-FL-NJ) - Map , NJ to Brazos R., TX
When is Phyllophaga aemula active?
Phyllophaga aemula: seasonal activity - Apr-Oct in FL.