Rhinusa neta
This record describes Rhinusa neta (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Accidentally introduced into North America in the early 1900s (1937), probably with ornamental toadflax. Regarded as possible biocontrol of toadflax. Has not been released for this purpose yet. However frequently seen in the field, few collections and releases have been made.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Curculioninae
- Tribe
- Mecinini
- Genus
- Rhinusa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grasslands, pastures, agricultural fields, and roadsides infested with yellow or Dalmatian toadflax
Diet and Behavior
Diet: toadflax, (yellow and Dalmatian)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Rhinusa neta. 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 Rhinusa neta (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinusa neta
What is Rhinusa neta?
Rhinusa neta is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Rhinusa neta found?
Habitat: Grasslands, pastures, agricultural fields, and roadsides infested with yellow or Dalmatian toadflax
What does Rhinusa neta eat?
The diet of the Rhinusa neta includes toadflax, (yellow and Dalmatian).