Zenocolaspis subtropica
This record describes Zenocolaspis subtropica (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Note bulging eyes... Distinguished at once from the North American species, by the strongly angulate sides of prothorax. The males are smaller and much more brightly colored than the females. (Schaeffer 1906) Type series localities: Brownsville, Texas, (San Tomas [now: Sabal Palm Grove] and Fort Brown). (Schaeffer 1906)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Eumolpinae
- Tribe
- Eumolpini
- Genus
- Zenocolaspis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Coastal South TX - Map
Seasonal Activity
Oct-Nov (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Eupatorium ( 3 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Zenocolaspis subtropica. 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 Zenocolaspis subtropica (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Zenocolaspis subtropica
What is Zenocolaspis subtropica?
Zenocolaspis subtropica is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Zenocolaspis subtropica?
Length 3.5-4.25 mm (Schaeffer 1906)
How do you identify Zenocolaspis subtropica?
Note bulging eyes... Distinguished at once from the North American species, by the strongly angulate sides of prothorax. The males are smaller and much more brightly colored than the females. (Schaeffer 1906)
Where is Zenocolaspis subtropica found?
Range: Coastal South TX - Map
What does Zenocolaspis subtropica eat?
The diet of the Zenocolaspis subtropica includes Eupatorium ( 3 ).
When is Zenocolaspis subtropica active?
Zenocolaspis subtropica: seasonal activity - Oct-Nov (BG data).