Serica parallela
This record describes Serica parallela (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Color varying through the shades mahogany red, bay and chestnut, surface velvety and opaque, with only a slight iridescence observable when viewed at an oblique angle in good light. Det. E. G. Riley, 2014 Type Locality: New Jersey
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
Geographic Range
e. NA (c.TX-FL-NY-IL / ON-QC) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Serica parallela Casey, 1884
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Serica parallela. 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 parallela (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Serica parallela
What is Serica parallela?
Serica parallela is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Serica parallela?
Length 7.5-8.5 mm
How do you identify Serica parallela?
Color varying through the shades mahogany red, bay and chestnut, surface velvety and opaque, with only a slight iridescence observable when viewed at an oblique angle in good light. Det. E. G. Riley, 2014
Where is Serica parallela found?
Range: e. NA (c.TX-FL-NY-IL / ON-QC) - Map