Phyllophaga balia
This record describes Phyllophaga balia (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Antennae 9-segmented.
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
Eastern North America, mostly midwest (NY south to VA west to Iowa)
Seasonal Activity
April thru July.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga balia. 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 balia (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Phillip Harpootlian
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga balia
How big is Phyllophaga balia?
About 15 to 16 mm.
How do you identify Phyllophaga balia?
Antennae 9-segmented.
Where is Phyllophaga balia found?
Range: Eastern North America, mostly midwest (NY south to VA west to Iowa)
When is Phyllophaga balia active?
Phyllophaga balia: seasonal activity - April thru July..