Systena pallicornis
This record describes Systena pallicornis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Type Locality: Brownsville, Texas (Esperanza Ranch). (Schaeffer 1906)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Systena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
coastal south Texas - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: asso. w/ bushy seaside tansy ( Borrichia frutescens , Asteraceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Systena pallicornis Schaeffer 1906
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Systena pallicornis. 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 Systena pallicornis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Systena pallicornis
What is Systena pallicornis?
Systena pallicornis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Systena pallicornis?
Length 3-3.75 mm (Schaeffer 1906)
Where is Systena pallicornis found?
Range: coastal south Texas - Map
What does Systena pallicornis eat?
The diet of the Systena pallicornis includes asso. w/ bushy seaside tansy ( Borrichia frutescens , Asteraceae).