Purpuricenus humeralis
This record describes Purpuricenus humeralis (species). Recorded family: Cerambycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Cerambycidae (Longhorn Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cerambycinae
- Tribe
- Trachyderini
- Genus
- Purpuricenus (Purplescent Longhorn Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA: New England to se SK to n.GA-e.OK - Map
Seasonal Activity
May-Sep , mostly July (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: the most polyphagous of NA spp. ; larvae mine in dead branches of numerous hardwoods
Life History
Attracted to bait traps ( 5 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Purpuricenus humeralis. 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 Purpuricenus humeralis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Purpuricenus humeralis
How big is Purpuricenus humeralis?
12-20 mm
Where is Purpuricenus humeralis found?
Range: e. NA: New England to se SK to n.GA-e.OK - Map
What does Purpuricenus humeralis eat?
The diet of the Purpuricenus humeralis includes the most polyphagous of NA spp. ; larvae mine in dead branches of numerous hardwoods.
When is Purpuricenus humeralis active?
Purpuricenus humeralis: seasonal activity - May-Sep , mostly July (BG data).
What is the life cycle of a Purpuricenus humeralis?
Attracted to bait traps ( 5 )