Phyllophaga parvidens
This record describes Phyllophaga parvidens (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Phyllophaga parvidens (Phyllophaga parvidens) is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, commonly known as scarab beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Melolonthinae, tribe Rhizotrogini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Scarabaeoidea. This species belongs to the genus Phyllophaga (May Beetles). As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 19-22 mm. It is found in broad coastal plains. Active during adults emerge early March to mid June.
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
Habitat
broad coastal plains ( 5 )
Geographic Range
TX-FL-NC, AR - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) , fairly common in TX
Seasonal Activity
adults emerge early March to mid June ( 5 )
Diet and Behavior
Diet: host families: beech, pine, rose, walnut ( 5 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: parvidens (L). 'small tooth'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga parvidens. 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 parvidens (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga parvidens
What is Phyllophaga parvidens?
Phyllophaga parvidens is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllophaga parvidens?
19-22 mm
Where is Phyllophaga parvidens found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | broad coastal plains ( 5 ) |
| Range | TX-FL-NC, AR - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) , fairly common in TX |
What does Phyllophaga parvidens eat?
The diet of the Phyllophaga parvidens includes host families: beech, pine, rose, walnut ( 5 ).
When is Phyllophaga parvidens active?
Phyllophaga parvidens: seasonal activity - adults emerge early March to mid June ( 5 ).