Polyphylla gracilis
This record describes Polyphylla gracilis (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A smaller species readily recognized by the unidentate protibia of the male and its mottled elytral color pattern, bearing a broad lateral stripe • syntype
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melolonthinae
- Tribe
- Melolonthini
- Genus
- Polyphylla (Lined June Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
upland habitats with a deep, well drained sand substrate, primarily sandhills
Geographic Range
se.AL‒n.FL‒sw.GA
Seasonal Activity
Apr‒May
Diet and Behavior
Diet: unknown; has been found mating on longleaf pine ( Pinus palustris ) and occurs in areas with various oaks
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Polyphylla gracilis Horn 1881
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Polyphylla gracilis. 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 Polyphylla gracilis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by David Almquist; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Polyphylla gracilis
What is Polyphylla gracilis?
Polyphylla gracilis is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Polyphylla gracilis?
18.8‒21.6 mm
How do you identify Polyphylla gracilis?
A smaller species readily recognized by the unidentate protibia of the male and its mottled elytral color pattern, bearing a broad lateral stripe • syntype
Where is Polyphylla gracilis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | upland habitats with a deep, well drained sand substrate, primarily sandhills |
| Range | se.AL‒n.FL‒sw.GA |
What does Polyphylla gracilis eat?
The diet of the Polyphylla gracilis includes unknown; has been found mating on longleaf pine ( Pinus palustris ) and occurs in areas with various oaks.
When is Polyphylla gracilis active?
Polyphylla gracilis: seasonal activity - Apr‒May.