Phyllophaga longispina
This record describes Phyllophaga longispina (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Usually light brown overall color and has 9 antennal segments. A hairy species, especially on the pronotum. Elytral hairs more or less in rows.
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 U.S. and Canada.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga longispina. 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 longispina (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Russell Rogers
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga longispina
What is Phyllophaga longispina?
Phyllophaga longispina is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllophaga longispina?
About 17 to 19 mm.
How do you identify Phyllophaga longispina?
Usually light brown overall color and has 9 antennal segments. A hairy species, especially on the pronotum. Elytral hairs more or less in rows.
Where is Phyllophaga longispina found?
Range: Eastern U.S. and Canada.