Phyllophaga latifrons
This record describes Phyllophaga latifrons (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytral surface in the darker specimens decidedly pruinose. Abdomen always pale. Clypeus entire, concave, the margin rather widely reflexed. Not a common species (outside of FL??)
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
LA-FL-NC , throughout FL
Seasonal Activity
early March to late July
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga latifrons. 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 latifrons (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga latifrons
What is Phyllophaga latifrons?
Phyllophaga latifrons is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllophaga latifrons?
15-18 mm
How do you identify Phyllophaga latifrons?
elytral surface in the darker specimens decidedly pruinose. Abdomen always pale. Clypeus entire, concave, the margin rather widely reflexed.
Where is Phyllophaga latifrons found?
Range: LA-FL-NC , throughout FL
When is Phyllophaga latifrons active?
Phyllophaga latifrons: seasonal activity - early March to late July.