Sphaerion exutum
This record describes Sphaerion exutum (species). Recorded family: Cerambycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This tropical species was first recorded from the U.S. on the basis of eight specimens collected on dead ebony at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in May, 1972 and May, 1973 (Giesbert and Hovore 1976). An additional male specimen was taken at that locality on dead Acacia in May, 1980. (Hovore et al. 1987)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Cerambycidae (Longhorn Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cerambycinae
- Tribe
- Elaphidiini
- Genus
- Sphaerion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Hidalgo Co., in southmost Texas / south to S. Amer. (Hovore et al, 1987)
Seasonal Activity
May (Hovore et al. 1987)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Texas ebony ( Ebenopsis ebano ), Acacia
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Sphaerion exutum. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sphaerion exutum
What is Sphaerion exutum?
Sphaerion exutum is a species in the family Cerambycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Sphaerion exutum found?
Range: Hidalgo Co., in southmost Texas / south to S. Amer. (Hovore et al, 1987)
What does Sphaerion exutum eat?
The diet of the Sphaerion exutum includes Texas ebony ( Ebenopsis ebano ), Acacia.
When is Sphaerion exutum active?
Sphaerion exutum: seasonal activity - May (Hovore et al. 1987).