Phyllophaga hirtiventris
This record describes Phyllophaga hirtiventris (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
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
c US: (mostly TX-MS-IA-NE), plus scattered eastern records - Map widely dist. in TX (except Trans-Pecos)
Seasonal Activity
Apr-July
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Host families: Beech, elm, mulberry, pulse, rose, walnut, willow , hackberry and oak
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: hirtiventris (L). 'hairy belly'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga hirtiventris. 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 hirtiventris (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga hirtiventris
How big is Phyllophaga hirtiventris?
17-18 mm (Horn 1887), (BG data)
Where is Phyllophaga hirtiventris found?
Range: c US: (mostly TX-MS-IA-NE), plus scattered eastern records - Map widely dist. in TX (except Trans-Pecos)
What does Phyllophaga hirtiventris eat?
The diet of the Phyllophaga hirtiventris includes Host families: Beech, elm, mulberry, pulse, rose, walnut, willow , hackberry and oak.
When is Phyllophaga hirtiventris active?
Phyllophaga hirtiventris: seasonal activity - Apr-July.