Plagiodera arizonae
This record describes Plagiodera arizonae (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2013
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chrysomelinae
- Tribe
- Chrysomelini
- Genus
- Plagiodera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ to w.TX-CO-NV / Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
Mar-Oct (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Willow - Salix (Salicaceae) ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Plagiodera arizonae Crotch 1873
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Plagiodera arizonae. 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 Plagiodera arizonae (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Plagiodera arizonae
How big is Plagiodera arizonae?
5 mm (BG data)
How do you identify Plagiodera arizonae?
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2013
Where is Plagiodera arizonae found?
Range: AZ to w.TX-CO-NV / Mex. - Map
What does Plagiodera arizonae eat?
The diet of the Plagiodera arizonae includes Willow - Salix (Salicaceae) ( 3 ).
When is Plagiodera arizonae active?
Plagiodera arizonae: seasonal activity - Mar-Oct (BG data).