Mecas

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
Family: Cerambycidae
Subfamily: Lamiinae
Tribe: Phytoeciini
Genus: Mecas

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mecas: /ˈmɛkəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Mecas cana - inat 77250610 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Mecas cineracea - inat 135099894 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Mecas femoralis - inat 81091078 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Mecas marginella - inat 37567606 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Mecas pergrata - inat 29068644 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Report on the Rocky Mountain locust and other insects now injuring or likely to injure field and garden crops in the western states and territories (1877) (14594944479) by Packard, A. S. (Alpheus Spring), 1839-1905;

Geological Survey (U.S.). Used under a No restrictions license.

Summary

Mecas is a genus of longhorn beetles, primarily occurring in North America with a notable diversity in Mexico. They are associated with the Asteraceae family and play important ecological roles as decomposers.

Physical Characteristics

Longhorn beetles with long antennae, varying body sizes and colors across species.

Identification Tips

Look for elongated bodies and long antennae, typically greater than the body length. Many species have distinctive coloration or markings that can aid in identification.

Habitat

Found in various habitats such as forests, woodlands, and areas with abundant Asteraceae plants.

Distribution

From the southern United States to Honduras, with the highest diversity occurring in Mexico.

Diet

Larvae feed mainly on the wood of decaying trees, while adults are known to feed on the foliage of Asteraceae.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid on host plants; larvae develop in wood, undergoing several molts before pupating.

Reproduction

Reproduction involves adult mating followed by females laying eggs on suitable host plants.

Predators

Natural predators may include birds, other insects, and various predators that feed on beetles.

Ecosystem Role

As decomposers, they contribute to breaking down wood and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Economic Impact

Some species may have impacts on forestry, as larvae can damage wood in living trees and timber.

Collecting Methods

Light traps
Hand collecting
Bait traps

Preservation Methods

Ethanol preservation
Pinning under glass
Drying and keeping in humidity-controlled conditions

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often confused with similar beetle families, leading to misidentification in the field.