Collops necopinus
Collops necopinus is a soft-winged flower beetle in the Melyridae. Like other members of the Collops, it is a predatory that feeds on small arthropods. The has been documented in the southwestern United States, including New Mexico, and is associated with flowering plants where it hunts prey. Collops beetles are recognized as beneficial natural enemies in agricultural systems, particularly in cotton production.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Collops necopinus: /ˈkɒlɒps nɛˈkɒpɪnəs/
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Identification
Members of the Collops can be distinguished from similar beetles by their soft, flexible that do not fully cover the , leaving several abdominal segments exposed. They typically have an elongated body form with relatively long . Specific identification of C. necopinus requires examination of male genitalia or other subtle morphological features; the lacks the distinct color patterns seen in some such as the red-and-black marked Collops vittatus.
Habitat
Documented from juniper/pine/oak woodland in the Great Plains transition zone, specifically in northeastern New Mexico. Associated with flowering plants, particularly Gutierrezia sarothrae (broom snakeweed), where it hunts for prey.
Distribution
United States: documented from Mills Rim Campground in Harding County, northeastern New Mexico. The Collops is broadly distributed across North America, with occurring throughout the western United States.
Seasonality
Observed in mid-September in northeastern New Mexico, suggesting late-season activity.
Diet
Predatory, feeding on small arthropods. Has been observed in association with flowers of Gutierrezia sarothrae where it likely preys on other flower-visiting insects.
Behavior
Active on flowers during daylight hours, where it hunts prey. Like other melyrid beetles, it is likely a that takes advantage of of small insects at floral resources.
Ecological Role
Predatory natural enemy; contributes to of pest insects in native and potentially in nearby agricultural systems.
Human Relevance
Recognized as part of the beneficial insect that supports natural pest control. Related in the (particularly Collops vittatus) are explicitly mentioned as important natural enemies in Texas cotton production systems, where they help control pest including aphids and other small insects.
Similar Taxa
- Collops vittatusSimilar soft-winged flower beetle with red-and-black coloration; distinguished by distinct pale vittae (stripes) on the and more widespread documentation in agricultural contexts. C. necopinus lacks these prominent markings.
- Other Melyridae (soft-winged flower beetles)Share the characteristic soft and exposed abdominal segments, but Collops are distinguished by their elongate form and predatory on flowers compared to the more commonly pollen-feeding habits of many other melyrids.