Coraia subcyanescens
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
- Family: Chrysomelidae
- Subfamily: Galerucinae
- Tribe: Galerucini
- Genus: Coraia
- Species: subcyanescens
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coraia subcyanescens: //kɔˈraɪ.a ˌsʌb.saɪəˈnɛs.ɛnz//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Summary
Coraia subcyanescens, known as the Coastal Coyotillo Leaf Beetle, is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, originally described by Schaeffer in 1906, and is associated primarily with coastal habitats in southern Texas.
Physical Characteristics
Approximately 10 mm in length, typically exhibiting leaf skeletonization damage.
Identification Tips
Look for distinctive patterns of leaf damage typical of skeletonizing beetles; adult coloration and structural features can aid in identification.
Habitat
Common in eastern Cameron County coastal habitats in southern Texas and along the Sierra Madre Oriental in northeastern Mexico.
Distribution
Southern Texas (notably Cameron County) and northeastern Mexico.
Diet
Primarily feeds on coyotillo (Karwinskia humboldtiana, Rhamnaceae).
Ecosystem Role
Functions as a leaf beetle, contributing to the ecosystem through herbivory, which can influence plant community dynamics.
Tags
- Coraia subcyanescens
- Coastal Coyotillo Leaf Beetle
- Chrysomelidae
- skeletonizing beetles
- Cameron County
- Texas