Shining Leaf Chafers
Rutelinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
- Family: Scarabaeidae
- Subfamily: Rutelinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rutelinae: /ruːtɛˈlaɪnaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Rutelinae, known as shining leaf chafers, is a diverse subfamily of scarab beetles characterized by their unique tarsal claws, feeding habits, and distribution across the globe. They include over 4,000 species and several are recognized agricultural pests.
Physical Characteristics
Rutelinae has unequal, independently moveable tarsal claws, especially on metatarsi. They have two apical mesotibial spurs, an exposed scutellum, and a pygidium that is not completely covered by elytra. They possess 9-10 segmented antennae with a 3-segmented club.
Identification Tips
Look for the characteristic tarsal claws and the lack of horn ornamentation. Many species display brilliant or iridescent hues.
Habitat
Distributed over most of the world, Rutelinae are found in various habitats where foliage and decaying vegetation are present.
Distribution
Worldwide distribution, with diversity concentrated in tropical and subtropical regions.
Diet
Adults feed on leaves, flowers, and flower parts; larvae feed on decaying wood, compost, or roots.
Life Cycle
Rutelinae undergo complete metamorphosis, with distinct egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproductive details are not specified; generally, beetles lay eggs in suitable substrates for larvae to feed upon.
Predators
Natural predators include birds and other insectivorous animals, though specific predator information is not widely documented.
Ecosystem Role
Rutelinae play a role in their ecosystems as pollinators and decomposers through their feeding habits on plant material and decaying matter.
Economic Impact
Several species of Rutelinae, such as the Japanese beetle, are known agricultural pests and can cause significant damage to crops and ornamental plants.
Collecting Methods
- Sweep netting
- Hand collecting
- Traps
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying
Evolution
Rutelinae is viewed as a fairly plesiomorphic group within scarab beetles and lacks ornamentation compared to some relatives.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
There may be confusion between Rutelinae and similar beetles which also exhibit shiny appearances but belong to different taxonomic groups.
Tags
- Rutelinae
- shining leaf chafers
- scarab beetles
- entomology
- insect identification