Cicada Parasite Beetles
Rhipiceridae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Dascilloidea
- Family: Rhipiceridae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhipiceridae: /rɪˈpɪsərɪˌdiː/
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Summary
Rhipiceridae, commonly known as Cicada Parasite Beetles, are a family of beetles that are mainly found in tree bark and are known for their life cycle as parasitic larvae on cicada nymphs.
Physical Characteristics
5 spp. in a single genus in our area, ~70 spp. in 7 genera total, body size ranges from 11-25 mm.
Identification Tips
Look for impressive jaws and mating aggregations on tree trunks in the fall.
Habitat
Found on tree trunks, specifically in fissures of tree bark where cicadas also lay their eggs.
Distribution
All major regions of the world, with various genera present in specific locations such as Australia, South America, and Europe.
Diet
Larvae are parasitoids on cicada nymphs.
Life Cycle
Mated females deposit eggs in tree bark; larvae find and attach to cicada nymphs after hatching.
Reproduction
Eggs are laid in cracks and crevices of tree bark.
Ecosystem Role
Serve as parasitoids on cicada nymphs, linking them to cicada populations.
Evolution
Rhipiceridae is grouped with Dascillidae in the superfamily Dascilloidea, exhibiting various apomorphies in its structural features.
Similar Taxa
- Cicada
- Dascillidae
Tags
- Rhipiceridae
- Cicada Parasite Beetles
- beetles
- insects
- Coleoptera