Palmetto Beetles

Smicripidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Cucujoidea
Family: Smicripidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Smicripidae: //ˌsmɪkɹɪˈpiːdiː//

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Summary

Smicripidae is a family of beetles characterized as palmetto beetles, comprising a single genus Smicrips with six known species. These beetles are found primarily in decaying vegetation and exhibit a preference for certain flowering plants.

Habitat

Often found on decaying vegetation; adults typically on inflorescences, especially those of Arecaceae (palms).

Distribution

CA, TX, FL-GA; native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas.

Diet

Unknown.

Conservation Status

Uncommon.

Evolution

Recently recognized as a separate family. Extinct species from the Eocene of Europe and one extinct genus known from mid Cretaceous aged Burmese amber.