Sennius cruentatus
This record describes Sennius cruentatus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The shape of the elytral maculation will usually separate S. cruentatus from all the U.S. species except S. simulans , which is only known from AZ. Has an all-black form
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Bruchinae
- Tribe
- Bruchini
- Genus
- Sennius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US to MN-SD-OK / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Chamaecrista fasciculata , Ch. n. nictitans ; Parkinsonia sp.
Life History
Often collected in inflorescences of other plant species and in spanish moss ( Tillandsia usneoides ) as a hibernaculum.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Sennius cruentatus (Horn)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Sennius cruentatus. 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 Sennius cruentatus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Sennius cruentatus
What is Sennius cruentatus?
Sennius cruentatus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Sennius cruentatus?
1.6-2.9 mm
How do you identify Sennius cruentatus?
The shape of the elytral maculation will usually separate S. cruentatus from all the U.S. species except S. simulans , which is only known from AZ.
Where is Sennius cruentatus found?
Range: e. US to MN-SD-OK / Mex. - Map
What does Sennius cruentatus eat?
The diet of the Sennius cruentatus includes Chamaecrista fasciculata , Ch. n. nictitans ; Parkinsonia sp..
What is the life cycle of a Sennius cruentatus?
Often collected in inflorescences of other plant species and in spanish moss ( Tillandsia usneoides ) as a hibernaculum.