Psyllobora plagiata
This record describes Psyllobora plagiata (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Gordon's figures Some of the spots near suture or side margin may be absent or very faint but the large postmedian patch is always present. (Schaeffer 1908) Type locality: Huachucha Mts., Arizona
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Coccinellinae
- Genus
- Psyllobora (Fungus-eating Lady Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se AZ, w. TX - Map (see solid stars) ,(BG data) (spmn coll'ed 2004 from Big Bend NP, Brewster Co., TX is apparently a New State Record)
Seasonal Activity
April (BG data based on 2 spmns)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Psyllobora plagiata Schaeffer, 1908
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Psyllobora plagiata. 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 Psyllobora plagiata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Dennis Haines; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Abigail Parker , PaleoJon
Frequently Asked Questions About Psyllobora plagiata
What is Psyllobora plagiata?
Psyllobora plagiata is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Psyllobora plagiata?
Length 2.5 to 3.1 mm
How do you identify Psyllobora plagiata?
Gordon's figures Some of the spots near suture or side margin may be absent or very faint but the large postmedian patch is always present. (Schaeffer 1908)
Where is Psyllobora plagiata found?
Range: se AZ, w. TX - Map (see solid stars) ,(BG data) (spmn coll'ed 2004 from Big Bend NP, Brewster Co., TX is apparently a New State Record)
When is Psyllobora plagiata active?
Psyllobora plagiata: seasonal activity - April (BG data based on 2 spmns).
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