Serica mystaca
This record describes Serica mystaca (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Literature record only for Texas, but expected to be found in east TX ( 4 )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melolonthinae
- Tribe
- Sericini
- Genus
- Serica
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
coll'ed in wooded areas in NE
Geographic Range
e. US to se.NE & LA - Map
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Jul in NE
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Serica mystaca Dawson, 1922
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Serica mystaca. 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 Serica mystaca (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Serica mystaca
What is Serica mystaca?
Serica mystaca is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Serica mystaca?
Length 8.1-9.0 mm
Where is Serica mystaca found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | coll'ed in wooded areas in NE |
| Range | e. US to se.NE & LA - Map |
When is Serica mystaca active?
Serica mystaca: seasonal activity - Apr-Jul in NE.