Obscure Sap Beetle
Conotelus obscurus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Cucujoidea
- Family: Nitidulidae
- Subfamily: Cillaeinae
- Genus: Conotelus
- Species: obscurus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Conotelus obscurus: /kɒnəˈtiːləs əbˈskjʊərəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Summary
Conotelus obscurus, known as the obscure sap beetle, is the widest-ranging species of its genus in North America. It is typically found on various flowers and is known for its sap-feeding behavior, especially in southern U.S. cotton blossoms.
Physical Characteristics
Adults measure 3.5-4.5 mm in length.
Identification Tips
Often found on flowers such as dogwoods and Asclepias syriaca; recognizable by their sap-feeding behavior.
Habitat
Typically inhabits areas with flowering plants, especially in southern parts of the U.S.
Distribution
Widespread in North America, particularly from New Brunswick to Manitoba, south to Georgia, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.
Diet
Feeds on sap from flowers and inside cotton blossoms.
Life Cycle
Life cycle details are not specified in the provided data.
Reproduction
Reproductive habits are not specified in the provided data.
Predators
Predators are not specified in the provided data.
Conservation Status
Not specified.
Ecosystem Role
Not specified, but likely plays a role in pollination due to feeding on flowers.
Economic Impact
Feeding inside cotton blossoms may have economic implications for cotton crops.
Cultural Significance
Not specified.
Health Concerns
Not specified.
Evolution
Not specified.
Misconceptions
Not specified.
Tags
- Coleoptera
- Nitidulidae
- sap beetle
- North America