Xanthochroa lateralis
This record describes Xanthochroa lateralis (species). Recorded family: Oedemeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

'Elytra with testaceous sutural markings; thorax orange with lateral black spots only; head immaculate' comes to lights ; rare
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Oedemeridae (False Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Oedemerinae
- Tribe
- Nacerdini
- Genus
- Xanthochroa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Adults on flowers
Geographic Range
se.US (MD‒n.FL to AR-LA)
Seasonal Activity
spring and early summer
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Xanthochroa lateralis (Melsheimer)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Xanthochroa lateralis. 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 Xanthochroa lateralis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Xanthochroa lateralis
What is Xanthochroa lateralis?
Xanthochroa lateralis is a species in the family Oedemeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Xanthochroa lateralis?
8.0‒10.0 mm
How do you identify Xanthochroa lateralis?
'Elytra with testaceous sutural markings; thorax orange with lateral black spots only; head immaculate'
Where is Xanthochroa lateralis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Adults on flowers |
| Range | se.US (MD‒n.FL to AR-LA) |
When is Xanthochroa lateralis active?
Xanthochroa lateralis: seasonal activity - spring and early summer.
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