Phyllophaga torta
This record describes Phyllophaga torta (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
sc US (TX-LA-MO-KS) / Tamps, Mex. - Map (Rodríguez-del-Bosque et al. 1995) Widespread in TX (except w. TX)
Seasonal Activity
End of April to middle of July. June-Sept, (w/ peak in Sept) in OK (Royer et al. 2007)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllophaga torta. 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 torta (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Maury Heiman
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllophaga torta
How big is Phyllophaga torta?
19-24 mm
Where is Phyllophaga torta found?
Range: sc US (TX-LA-MO-KS) / Tamps, Mex. - Map (Rodríguez-del-Bosque et al. 1995) Widespread in TX (except w. TX)
When is Phyllophaga torta active?
Phyllophaga torta: seasonal activity - End of April to middle of July. June-Sept, (w/ peak in Sept) in OK (Royer et al. 2007).