Phyllophaga knochii
This record describes Phyllophaga knochii (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The large size and densely rugose punctation of the pronotum narrows this species to a small group of species in the East. Identification can be confirmed by examination of the genitalia for both males and females.
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
Most common in the southern states, but ranges into southern New England along the Atlantic Coast
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phyllophaga knochii (Schönherr and Gyllenhal 1817)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga knochii. 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 knochii (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Robert Androw; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga knochii
What is Phyllophaga knochii?
Phyllophaga knochii is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllophaga knochii?
One of the larger species in the U.S., 21.5‒23.5 mm
How do you identify Phyllophaga knochii?
The large size and densely rugose punctation of the pronotum narrows this species to a small group of species in the East. Identification can be confirmed by examination of the genitalia for both males and females.
Where is Phyllophaga knochii found?
Range: Most common in the southern states, but ranges into southern New England along the Atlantic Coast