Xenochalepus potomacus
This record describes Xenochalepus potomacus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Yellow markings consist of a spot on the vertex, a pair of broad sublateral pronotal areas confluent along anterior margin above and involving the pro-sternum below, as well as joining the small humeral spot; anterior femora yellow at basal one-third, meso-femora feebly spotted at base; a median longitudinal yellow vitta on mesosternum; sides of abdomen narrowly margined with yellow. HOLOTYPE
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cassidinae
- Tribe
- Chalepini
- Genus
- Xenochalepus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
GA-MD, MO - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: host is Thicket Bean ( Phaseolus polystachios , Fabaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Xenochalepus potomacus Butte, 1968
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Xenochalepus potomacus. 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 Xenochalepus potomacus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Xenochalepus potomacus
What is Xenochalepus potomacus?
Xenochalepus potomacus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Xenochalepus potomacus?
Length: 7.0-8.0 mm
How do you identify Xenochalepus potomacus?
Yellow markings consist of a spot on the vertex, a pair of broad sublateral pronotal areas confluent along anterior margin above and involving the pro-sternum below, as well as joining the small humeral spot; anterior femora yellow at basal one-third, meso-femora feebly spotted at base; a median longitudinal yellow vitta on mesosternum; sides of abdomen narrowly margined with yellow. HOLOTYPE
Where is Xenochalepus potomacus found?
Range: GA-MD, MO - Map
What does Xenochalepus potomacus eat?
The diet of the Xenochalepus potomacus includes host is Thicket Bean ( Phaseolus polystachios , Fabaceae).