Stenispa metallica
This record describes Stenispa metallica (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
the only unicolorous Stenispa in our area
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cassidinae
- Tribe
- Imatidiini
- Genus
- Stenispa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e US (NY-FL to SD-TX) & Mex. - Map , most records New England to MO.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Larvae reared from Scirpus atrovirens , adults coll'ed from other sedges as well. (Cyperaceae)
Life History
Unique among N. Amer. hispines, Stenispa larvae feed externally on the leaf (but within the leaf sheath) and pupate within the last larval skin
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Stenispa metallica (Fabricius 1801)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Stenispa metallica. 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 Stenispa metallica (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , ceiseman , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Stenispa metallica
What is Stenispa metallica?
Stenispa metallica is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Stenispa metallica?
5.3-5.6 mm
How do you identify Stenispa metallica?
the only unicolorous Stenispa in our area
Where is Stenispa metallica found?
Range: e US (NY-FL to SD-TX) & Mex. - Map , most records New England to MO.
What does Stenispa metallica eat?
The diet of the Stenispa metallica includes Larvae reared from Scirpus atrovirens , adults coll'ed from other sedges as well. (Cyperaceae).
What is the life cycle of a Stenispa metallica?
Unique among N. Amer. hispines, Stenispa larvae feed externally on the leaf (but within the leaf sheath) and pupate within the last larval skin