Trirhabda pubicollis
This record describes Trirhabda pubicollis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Blake's detailed original description from 1951 can be read at: http://biodiversitylibrary.org/page/39697232 .
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Galerucini
- Genus
- Trirhabda
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ, NM, nw. TX
Seasonal Activity
Differing from all other species of the genus by having two distinct seasonal occurrences. Infrequently in March and October, commonly in May, June, August and September.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Larval and adult host plant: Parthenium incanum
Life History
From Hogue: " T. pubicollis is unique in its host plant and as far as this study revealed represents the only species which has two distinguishable generations a year."
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Trirhabda pubicollis. 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 Trirhabda pubicollis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Aaron Schusteff
Frequently Asked Questions About Trirhabda pubicollis
What is Trirhabda pubicollis?
Trirhabda pubicollis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Trirhabda pubicollis found?
Range: AZ, NM, nw. TX
What does Trirhabda pubicollis eat?
The diet of the Trirhabda pubicollis includes Larval and adult host plant: Parthenium incanum.
When is Trirhabda pubicollis active?
Trirhabda pubicollis: seasonal activity - Differing from all other species of the genus by having two distinct seasonal occurrences. Infrequently in March and October, commonly in May, June, August and September..
What is the life cycle of a Trirhabda pubicollis?
From Hogue: T. pubicollis is unique in its host plant and as far as this study revealed represents the only species which has two distinguishable generations a year.