Smicronyx discoideus
This record describes Smicronyx discoideus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A distinct posterolateral macula of dark scales present on each elytron, in addition to the dark dorsal macula; surface of antennal club black or piceous Det. MJ Hatfield, 2019
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Curculioninae
- Tribe
- Smicronychini
- Genus
- Smicronyx
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA (NY-SK south to NC-TX) Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Smicronyx discoideus (LeConte, 1876)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Smicronyx discoideus. 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 Smicronyx discoideus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Smicronyx discoideus
What is Smicronyx discoideus?
Smicronyx discoideus is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Smicronyx discoideus?
A distinct posterolateral macula of dark scales present on each elytron, in addition to the dark dorsal macula; surface of antennal club black or piceous Det. MJ Hatfield, 2019
Where is Smicronyx discoideus found?
Range: e. NA (NY-SK south to NC-TX) Map