Synetocephalus diegensis
This record describes Synetocephalus diegensis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytral vittae narrow, antennae usually with terminal segments paler; head frequently more reddish than pronotum. Type Locality: San Diego, California
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Luperini
- Genus
- Synetocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
so. CA-AZ - Map iNaturalist observations from Los Angeles, Riverside and San Diego Counties.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Synetocephalus diegensis. 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 Synetocephalus diegensis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche
Frequently Asked Questions About Synetocephalus diegensis
What is Synetocephalus diegensis?
Synetocephalus diegensis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Synetocephalus diegensis?
4.2 - 5.8 mm
How do you identify Synetocephalus diegensis?
Elytral vittae narrow, antennae usually with terminal segments paler; head frequently more reddish than pronotum.
Where is Synetocephalus diegensis found?
Range: so. CA-AZ - Map iNaturalist observations from Los Angeles, Riverside and San Diego Counties.