Coscinoptera

Coscinoptera

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coscinoptera: //ˌkɒskɪˈnɒptərə//

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

Images

Coscinoptera tibialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Coscinoptera tibialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Coscinoptera tibialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Coscinoptera tibialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Coscinoptera tibialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Coscinoptera tibialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Coscinoptera is a genus of case-bearing leaf beetles found primarily in the neotropical regions with a few species extending into the southwestern United States. The genus includes notable species such as Coscinoptera aeneipennis, Coscinoptera mucida, and Coscinoptera villosa.

Physical Characteristics

Coscinoptera species are characterized by their case-bearing habits, which involve constructing protective cases for their larvae. They typically exhibit variations in color and patterns depending on the species.

Identification Tips

Look for beetles that possess a distinct case made from plant materials. They are generally small and can be identified by their shape and color patterns which may vary among species.

Habitat

Coscinoptera species inhabit areas with abundant vegetation, often in neotropical environments but can also be found in southwestern United States regions such as California, Kansas, and Arkansas.

Distribution

Primarily neotropical with some species extending into the southwestern United States.

Diet

Coscinoptera species primarily feed on leaves of various plants, making them phytophagous leaf beetles.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Coscinoptera involves an egg stage, larval stage where they utilize a case for protection, pupal stage, and then adult emergence.

Reproduction

Details on specific reproductive behaviors are not provided; however, like many beetles, they likely engage in copulation followed by oviposition on host plants.

Ecosystem Role

As herbivorous insects, Coscinoptera play a role in leaf consumption which can impact plant health and growth, and they serve as prey for various predators.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collecting
  • Sweep nets
  • Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Alcohol preservation
  • Desiccants

Evolution

Coscinoptera is part of a larger group of case-bearing beetles with a shared evolutionary lineage in the Chrysomelidae family.

Similar Taxa

Tags

  • Beetles
  • Chrysomelidae
  • Coscinoptera
  • Leaf beetles
  • Insects