Zenocolaspis

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
Family: Chrysomelidae
Subfamily: Eumolpinae
Tribe: Eumolpini
Genus: Zenocolaspis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Zenocolaspis: /ˌzɛnəʊkəˈlæs.pɪs/

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

Summary

Zenocolaspis is a genus of leaf beetles described by Jan Bechyné in 1997, found primarily in North and South America. It features a small body size and prominent eyes, distinguishing it from closely related genera.

Physical Characteristics

The genus Zenocolaspis is characterized by smaller body size and strongly convex, prominent eyes when compared to similar genera such as Colaspis.

Identification Tips

Look for small leaf beetles with prominent eyes.

Habitat

Zenocolaspis is found in a variety of habitats typical for leaf beetles, including forest edges and agricultural areas.

Distribution

Zenocolaspis is distributed in North America and South America, with specific sightings in Texas and Venezuela.

Diet

As a genus of leaf beetles, Zenocolaspis likely feeds on the leaves of various plants, though specific dietary preferences are not detailed.

Life Cycle

The life cycle specifics of Zenocolaspis are not explicitly stated, but like many beetles, they undergo complete metamorphosis.

Reproduction

Details on the reproductive behavior of Zenocolaspis are not provided in the available data.

Ecosystem Role

As leaf beetles, species within Zenocolaspis contribute to the herbivorous insect community, impacting plant health and serving as prey for various predators.

Collecting Methods

Netting
Trapping
Hand collecting

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Ethanol preservation
Diapause storage

Evolution

The genus Zenocolaspis was established after evaluating species from the Colaspis genus, indicating an evolutionary divergence within the Eumolpinae subfamily.

Similar Taxa

Colaspis
Maecolaspis

Misconceptions

There may be confusion between the genera Zenocolaspis and Colaspis due to their morphological similarities.