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//

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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.