Scymnus compar
This record describes Scymnus compar (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
combination of small size, almost completely black dorsum and usually pale last abdominal sterna render compar a comparatively easy sp. to distinguish externally. Type Locality: Indiana
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scymninae
- Tribe
- Scymnini
- Genus
- Scymnus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
scattered locations e. N. Amer. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
4 spmns coll'ed on Juniper Mar-May in c. TX ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Scymnus compar Casey 1899
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Scymnus compar. 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 Scymnus compar (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Guy A. Hanley; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Scymnus compar
What is Scymnus compar?
Scymnus compar is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Scymnus compar?
1.6-2.0 mm
How do you identify Scymnus compar?
combination of small size, almost completely black dorsum and usually pale last abdominal sterna render compar a comparatively easy sp. to distinguish externally.
Where is Scymnus compar found?
Range: scattered locations e. N. Amer. - Map
What is the life cycle of a Scymnus compar?
4 spmns coll'ed on Juniper Mar-May in c. TX ( 3 )