Prionus spinipennis
This record describes Prionus spinipennis (species). Recorded family: Cerambycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Prionus (H.) spinipennis may be distinguished from all other known Homaesthesis by the combination of 12-segmented antennae, expanded tarsi, dark-brown to piceous integument with wholly reddish antennae, and spinose sutural angle of the elytra Type data: Holotype male, allotype (California Academy of Sciences) and 35 paratypes from: TEXAS, Ward County, Monahans Sandhills State Park , at lights, 21 August 1982 (R.H. Turnbow, T.P. Friedlander). Texas considers this a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Cerambycidae (Longhorn Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Prioninae
- Tribe
- Prionini
- Genus
- Prionus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Two of the paratypes were collected away from lights in association with shinnery oaks ( Quercus havardii ) growing on the dunes.
Geographic Range
se NM, and adjacent w. TX - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly August
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Prionus spinipennis Hovore & Turnbow 1984
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Prionus spinipennis. 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 Prionus spinipennis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Phillip Harpootlian
Frequently Asked Questions About Prionus spinipennis
What is Prionus spinipennis?
Prionus spinipennis is a species in the family Cerambycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Prionus spinipennis?
Male Length (exclusive of mandibles): 19.5 - 32 mm. Female Length (exclusive of mandibles): 29 - 30 mm.
How do you identify Prionus spinipennis?
Prionus (H.) spinipennis may be distinguished from all other known Homaesthesis by the combination of 12-segmented antennae, expanded tarsi, dark-brown to piceous integument with wholly reddish antennae, and spinose sutural angle of the elytra
Where is Prionus spinipennis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Two of the paratypes were collected away from lights in association with shinnery oaks ( Quercus havardii ) growing on the dunes. |
| Range | se NM, and adjacent w. TX - Map |
When is Prionus spinipennis active?
Prionus spinipennis: seasonal activity - mostly August.