Scymnus difficilis
This record describes Scymnus difficilis (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
reddish brown; anterior third of pronotum yellow, posterior two-thirds dark brown; sutural border narrowly black from base to middle of disk Not commonly collected . However, locally quite abundant in riparian habitats in southern California, where it is the most common species in the genus (per J. Bailey).
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
California - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Scymnus (Scymnus) difficilis Casey, 1899
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Scymnus difficilis. 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 difficilis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Abigail Parker; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , James Bailey
Frequently Asked Questions About Scymnus difficilis
What is Scymnus difficilis?
Scymnus difficilis is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Scymnus difficilis?
1.8-2.1 mm long
How do you identify Scymnus difficilis?
reddish brown; anterior third of pronotum yellow, posterior two-thirds dark brown; sutural border narrowly black from base to middle of disk
Where is Scymnus difficilis found?
Range: California - Map