Smicronyx spretus
This record describes Smicronyx spretus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2013 Type Locality: Ariz.
Identification notes
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2013
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
sw US (AZ-TX-OK) - Map , mostly AZ to w. TX
Seasonal Activity
May-Jul (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Smicronyx spretus Dietz, 1894
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Smicronyx spretus. 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 spretus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Smicronyx spretus
What is Smicronyx spretus?
Smicronyx spretus is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Smicronyx spretus?
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2013
Where is Smicronyx spretus found?
Range: sw US (AZ-TX-OK) - Map , mostly AZ to w. TX
When is Smicronyx spretus active?
Smicronyx spretus: seasonal activity - May-Jul (BG data).