Dascilloidea
Dascilloidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Dascilloidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dascilloidea: //dæsˌsɪlɔɪˈdiːə//
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Images
Summary
Dascilloidea is a superfamily of beetles comprising two families: Dascillidae, known as soft-bodied plant beetles, and Rhipiceridae, known as cicada beetles and parasites. They play a significant role in their ecosystems, particularly in relation to plants and cicadas.
Physical Characteristics
Dascilloidea beetles are characterized by their soft bodies and are generally small in size. Members of the Dascillidae family have a more delicate structure, while Rhipiceridae may display more robust features.
Identification Tips
Look for the soft-bodied nature of these beetles and their size, which is typically small. Dascillidae can often be found on plants, while Rhipiceridae are usually associated with cicadas.
Habitat
Dascilloidea can be found in various habitats, including forests and grasslands, where they are often found in association with plants (for Dascillidae) or cicadas (for Rhipiceridae).
Distribution
The distribution of Dascilloidea includes regions where their host plants and cicadas are present.
Diet
Dascillidae are primarily herbivorous, feeding on the leaves, stems, or roots of plants. Rhipiceridae, as cicada parasites, have a different diet, relating to their life cycle with cicadas.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Dascilloidea typically involves complete metamorphosis, including egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproduction involves laying eggs in or near the habitats of their host plants (Dascillidae) or cicadas (Rhipiceridae).
Predators
Predators of Dascilloidea may include various birds, insects, and other arthropods depending on the region and specific beetle family.
Ecosystem Role
Dascilloidea play a role in their ecosystems as herbivores and as part of the food web, particularly Rhipiceridae which interact with cicada populations.
Collecting Methods
- Light trapping
- Hand collecting on host plants
- Sweep netting in habitats
Preservation Methods
- Dry preservation
- Entomological pins for mounting
- Alcohol preservation for larvae
Evolution
Dascilloidea is believed to have evolved within the larger clade of polyphagan beetles, reflecting morphological adaptations for their ecological niches.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some people may confuse Dascilloidea beetles with other soft-bodied insects, not understanding their unique characteristics and ecological roles.
Tags
- Dascilloidea
- beetles
- Dascillidae
- Rhipiceridae
- coleoptera