Strongylium championi
This record describes Strongylium championi (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
most recent prior known collection in TX: 1947 ( 3 ) Texas considers this a SGCN ( 4 )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Stenochiinae
- Tribe
- Stenochiini
- Genus
- Strongylium
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
taken on Condalia hookeri (=obovata) , on Ebenopsis ebano (=Pithecellobium flexicaule) cut three weeks before, and on Celtis ehrenbergiana (=pallida) foliage
Geographic Range
southernmost TX (Cameron Co.) to Belize & Guatemala - Map
Seasonal Activity
TX collecting events: May, June, July
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Strongylium championi Gebien 1944 [1948] [replacement name for S. varians Champion 1888]
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Strongylium championi. 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 Strongylium championi (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Strongylium championi
What is Strongylium championi?
Strongylium championi is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Strongylium championi?
8.3-11.2 mm
Where is Strongylium championi found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | taken on Condalia hookeri (=obovata) , on Ebenopsis ebano (=Pithecellobium flexicaule) cut three weeks before, and on Celtis ehrenbergiana (=pallida) foliage |
| Range | southernmost TX (Cameron Co.) to Belize & Guatemala - Map |
When is Strongylium championi active?
Strongylium championi: seasonal activity - TX collecting events: May, June, July.