Eastern-united-states
Guides
Abedus immaculatus
Abedus immaculatus is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae. It is the only Abedus species found in the eastern United States, with a range extending throughout Florida north into Georgia and west along the Gulf Coast to Mississippi. Adults measure 13–14 mm in length, making them the smallest species in the genus Abedus and the smallest belostomatid in the United States. The species is the sole member of the subgenus Microabedus. It is locally common in parts of the Everglades, where it occurs in shorter hydroperiod sites.
giant-water-bugaquatic-insectfreshwaterwetlandEvergladesendemiceastern-United-Statessmallest-belostomatid-USAmale-parental-careBelostomatidaeHemipteraMicroabedushydroperiodFloridaGeorgiaMississippiGulf-CoastThomas-Say1832Abedus-cantrallisynonymywater-bugtrue-bugNepomorphaHeteropteraInsectaArthropodaAnimaliaAcrobasis minimella
Acrobasis minimella is a small snout moth in the family Pyralidae, described by Émile Louis Ragonot in 1889. It occurs in the eastern United States. The species has a wingspan of approximately 17 mm. Its larvae are specialized feeders on oak species (Quercus).
Acrolophus popeanella
Clemens' Grass Tubeworm Moth
Acrolophus popeanella is a moth in the family Acrolophidae, commonly known as Clemens' Grass Tubeworm Moth. The species was described by James Brackenridge Clemens in 1859. Adults are small moths with distinctive dark brown wings marked with lighter brown blotches and a striped pattern near the forewing margins. The larvae are root-feeders, specifically documented to feed on red clover (Trifolium pratense). The species is widely distributed across the eastern and central United States, occurring in diverse habitats from grasslands to urban environments.
Aethes angulatana
Angular Aethes Moth, angular aethes
Aethes angulatana, commonly known as the Angular Aethes Moth, is a small tortricid moth described by Robinson in 1869. Adults are active during summer months, with flight periods varying by latitude. The species is relatively well-documented with over 200 iNaturalist observations.
Agraphus bellicus
Agraphus bellicus is a species of broad-nosed weevil in the family Curculionidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1831. It belongs to the subfamily Entiminae, a diverse group of weevils characterized by their elongated snouts and root-feeding larvae. The species has been documented in several eastern U.S. states, with records concentrated in the Mid-Atlantic and Florida regions. Like other members of its genus, it is likely associated with herbaceous vegetation, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Amydria brevipennella
Amydria brevipennella is a small moth in the family Tineidae (formerly placed in Acrolophidae), described by Dietz in 1905. It is known from scattered records in the eastern United States. The species is rarely encountered and poorly documented in the scientific literature.
Anillinus fortis
Anillinus fortis is a species of small ground beetle in the family Carabidae, endemic to the Eastern United States. It belongs to the tribe Anillina within the subfamily Trechinae, a group characterized by reduced eyes and adaptations to subterranean or soil-dwelling habits. The species was described by George Henry Horn in 1869. Like other members of its genus, it likely inhabits forest floor litter and soil microhabitats.
Anopheles quadrimaculatus
common malaria mosquito
Anopheles quadrimaculatus is a mosquito species historically recognized as the most important malaria vector in the eastern United States. It belongs to a sibling species complex that includes at least four genetically distinct forms. The species breeds in freshwater habitats, particularly intermittently flooded swamps and rice fields. While it remains capable of transmitting Plasmodium parasites, local malaria transmission in its range has been eliminated through vector control and public health measures.
Aphaenogaster tennesseensis
Tennessee Collared Ant, Tennessee Spine-waisted Ant
Aphaenogaster tennesseensis is a medium-sized ant species in the family Formicidae, commonly known as the Tennessee Collared Ant or Tennessee Spine-waisted Ant. It belongs to the genus Aphaenogaster, a diverse group of ants found primarily in temperate and subtropical regions. The species has been documented in the eastern United States, with records from Vermont and other states. Workers have been observed foraging on fungi and scavenging dead or injured insects.
Aristotelia lespedezae
Aristotelia lespedezae is a small moth in the twirler moth family Gelechiidae, described by Annette Frances Braun in 1930. It occurs in the eastern United States, with records from Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Maine, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, and West Virginia. Adults have been documented from late May through October in Kentucky. The species name references its presumed larval association with Lespedeza plants.
Ataenius fattigi
Ataenius fattigi is a species of aphodiine dung beetle in the family Scarabaeidae. It is found in North America, with records from the eastern and central United States. The species was described by Cartwright in 1948. Like other members of the genus Ataenius, it is associated with decomposing organic matter.
Atymna inornata
Atymna inornata is a treehopper species in the family Membracidae, subfamily Smiliinae. First described by Thomas Say in 1831, this species is characterized by its relatively unadorned pronotum compared to other members of the genus. Treehoppers in this group are known for their highly modified pronota that often extend into elaborate structures, though A. inornata exhibits a more subdued morphology consistent with its specific epithet.
Brachygluta luniger
Brachygluta luniger is a small rove beetle in the family Staphylinidae. The species has been recorded from eastern North America, with distribution records spanning from Canada to the southeastern United States. As with other members of the genus Brachygluta, it is a poorly known species with limited published biological information. The genus belongs to the diverse rove beetle fauna, one of the largest families of beetles.
Brachypnoea convexa
Brachypnoea convexa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in the Eastern United States. First described by Thomas Say in 1824, this species belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles. Very little has been published regarding its biology, ecology, or specific habitat requirements.
Brephidium pseudofea
Eastern Pygmy-Blue
Brephidium pseudofea, commonly known as the Eastern Pygmy-Blue, is one of the smallest butterflies in North America. It belongs to the family Lycaenidae and is closely related to the Western Pygmy-Blue (Brephidium exilis), from which it can be distinguished by distribution and subtle morphological differences. The species is associated with coastal and salt marsh habitats in the eastern United States.
Buprestis rufipes
red-legged buprestis, red-legged buprestis beetle, redbellied buprestis
Buprestis rufipes is a striking metallic wood-boring beetle native to the eastern and southern United States. Adults measure 18–25 mm and display brilliant metallic green coloration with distinctive golden-yellow bands across the elytra, with reddish legs and underparts that give the species its name. The beetle has been reared from dead or dying hardwood trunks, particularly maple, beech, oak, elm, and blackgum. Despite its visual prominence, the species remains poorly studied, with no recorded larval host plants and limited ecological data.
Camponotus chromaiodes
ferruginous carpenter ant, red carpenter ant
Camponotus chromaiodes, commonly known as the ferruginous or red carpenter ant, is a species of carpenter ant native to the eastern United States with records extending to Nebraska, Kansas, and possibly California. Workers of this species have been observed removing honeydew droplets from spotted lanternfly nymphs, suggesting potential for developing mutualistic relationships with honeydew-producing insects. Like other carpenter ants, it excavates galleries in wood for colony housing rather than consuming wood for nutrition.
Catocala serena
Serene Underwing
Catocala serena, the serene underwing, is a moth in the family Erebidae. It is found in eastern North America from southern Ontario and New England south to Tennessee, and west to Illinois and eastern Wisconsin. Adults are active from July to September with one generation per year. The larvae feed on shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) and black walnut (Juglans nigra).
Catopocerus politus
Catopocerus politus is a species of small carrion beetle in the family Leiodidae, first described by Motschulsky in 1870. It belongs to the subfamily Catopocerinae, a group of beetles primarily associated with decomposing organic matter. The species has been recorded from several eastern U.S. states including Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, West Virginia, and Washington D.C.
Ceuthophilus guttulosus angulosus
Camel cricket, Cave cricket
Ceuthophilus guttulosus angulosus is a subspecies of camel cricket in the family Rhaphidophoridae. As a member of the genus Ceuthophilus, it shares traits with other American camel crickets: wingless adults, humpbacked appearance, and elongated antennae adapted for navigation in dark environments. This subspecies has been documented in several eastern and midwestern U.S. states. Like other camel crickets, it is primarily associated with cool, damp, dark habitats and is nocturnal in activity.
Ceuthophilus guttulosus thomasi
Utah camel cricket
Ceuthophilus guttulosus thomasi is a subspecies of camel cricket in the family Rhaphidophoridae. It is a native North American camel cricket belonging to the genus Ceuthophilus, which includes approximately 90 species. The subspecies was described by Hubbell in 1936. Like other camel crickets, it is wingless, nocturnal, and adapted to dark, damp environments. It is found in the eastern United States, with records from Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, New York, and Ohio.
Chalcosyrphus metallifer
Orange-horned Leafwalker
Chalcosyrphus metallifer, commonly known as the Orange-horned Leafwalker, is a rare species of syrphid fly found in the Eastern United States. Adults are typically observed on flowers, where they feed on nectar and pollen. The species belongs to the subgenus Xylotomima within the genus Chalcosyrphus, a group whose larvae are associated with decaying wood rather than the aphid predation typical of many hoverflies.
Colonus puerperus
Colonus puerperus is a jumping spider species found in the eastern United States, notable for its exceptional jumping ability. Adult females measure 7–11 mm, while males are smaller at 5–7 mm. The species has been documented jumping up to 38 times its body length, with a measured maximum horizontal jump of 23 cm for a 6.2 mm male. It inhabits grassy areas and is active during warmer months.
Condylostylus comatus
Condylostylus comatus is a species of long-legged fly in the family Dolichopodidae, primarily found in the Eastern United States. Males can be distinguished from similar species by a row of hairs on the mid metatarsus and pale genital appendages. The species belongs to a diverse Neotropical genus and exhibits typical dolichopodid characteristics including predatory behavior on small insects.
Coras aerialis
Coras aerialis is a species of funnel weaver spider in the family Agelenidae, first described by Muma in 1946. It is found in the United States, with records from Vermont and other eastern states. The species belongs to a genus of forest-dwelling spiders that construct funnel-shaped webs with multiple retreats, often in elevated positions or crevices.
Cuerna costalis
Lateral-lined Sharpshooter
Cuerna costalis, known as the lateral-lined sharpshooter, is a leafhopper species in the family Cicadellidae. It is native to the eastern half of the United States. The species is distinguished by its black and red coloration with longitudinal stripes on the forewings and a prominent white stripe running from the eye along the side of the abdomen. It is the only species in the genus Cuerna with red on its legs.
Decarthron stigmosum
ant-loving beetle
Decarthron stigmosum is a species of rove beetle in the subfamily Pselaphinae, commonly referred to as ant-loving beetles. The species was described by Brendel in 1865. It is distributed across eastern North America, with records from Canada and multiple U.S. states. Like other Pselaphinae, it is associated with ant colonies, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Diplotaxis subcostata
Diplotaxis subcostata is a small scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Melolonthinae. The species was described by Blanchard in 1851 and is distributed across the eastern and southern United States. Like other members of the genus Diplotaxis, it is attracted to lights at night and has been observed congregating on low vegetation, possibly in association with pheromone trails.
Efferia pogonias
Yellow-bearded Hammertail
Efferia pogonias is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the yellow-bearded hammertail. It is endemic to the eastern United States, where it occurs from Maine to Georgia and westward to Minnesota and Texas. The species prefers open, dry habitats including sandy inland locations. Adults are active from May to October with peak activity in September and October. Females oviposit in soil.
Enallagma pollutum
Florida bluet
Enallagma pollutum, the Florida bluet, is a narrow-winged damselfly endemic to the eastern United States. It belongs to the family Coenagrionidae, a large group of small to medium-sized damselflies commonly known as pond damselflies or bluets. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival.
Epiblema gibsoni
Epiblema gibsoni is a small moth in the family Tortricidae, first described by Wright and Covell in 2003. The species is named in honor of Loran D. Gibson for his contributions to Kentucky lepidopterology. It occurs in the eastern and central United States, with adult flight activity recorded from early June through late August.
Eratoneura osborni
Eratoneura osborni is a species of leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, subfamily Typhlocybinae. Like other members of the genus Eratoneura, it is a small plant-feeding insect. The species was described by DeLong in 1916. It has been documented in the eastern United States, with records from Maryland, New Hampshire, Tennessee, and Virginia. As a typhlocybine leafhopper, it likely possesses the characteristic brochosomes—nanoparticle coatings that provide hydrophobic and anti-reflective properties to the exoskeleton.
Erebomaster acanthinus
armoured harvestman
Erebomaster acanthinus is a species of armoured harvestman in the family Cladonychiidae (sometimes listed as Travuniidae in older sources). It belongs to the suborder Laniatores, a group of harvestmen characterized by relatively short legs and often elaborate body armature. The species was described by Crosby and Bishop in 1924. It is known from scattered records in the eastern United States.
Eudryas unio
Pearly Wood-nymph
Eudryas unio, the pearly wood-nymph, is a noctuid moth native to eastern North America. Adults are active from May through August and have a wingspan of 26–35 mm. The species was historically confused with Eudryas brevipennis, but genitalia differences in both sexes confirm their separation. Isolated populations occur in central Utah and California, with the California population potentially representing a distinct subspecies.
Fascista bimaculella
Fascista bimaculella is a small moth in the family Gelechiidae, found in eastern North America. The species is distinguished by its striking forewing pattern: a dark purplish-brown to black background with two prominent white markings—a large discal spot and a costal streak. It occurs in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains. The specific epithet 'bimaculella' refers to these two macules (spots).
Garganus fusiformis
Garganus fusiformis is a species of plant bug in the family Miridae. It is found in North America, with distribution records from the eastern and southeastern United States including Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. As a member of the Miridae, it possesses the characteristic piercing-sucking mouthparts typical of true bugs.
Hahncappsia neomarculenta
Hahncappsia neomarculenta is a crambid moth described by Hahn William Capps in 1967. The species is endemic to the eastern United States, with records from six states in the Appalachian and mid-Atlantic regions. Adults are active during late spring and early summer.
Helopicus subvarians
vernal springfly
Helopicus subvarians is a species of springfly in the family Perlodidae, described by Banks in 1920. It is commonly known as the vernal springfly. Records indicate occurrence in the eastern United States. Like other Plecoptera, it is associated with aquatic habitats during immature stages.
Hexatoma wilsonii
Hexatoma wilsonii is a species of limoniid crane fly (family Limoniidae) first described by Osten Sacken in 1869. The species is known from the eastern United States, with records from Ohio to Delaware and south to North Carolina. Like other members of the genus Hexatoma, adults are characterized by reduced wing venation and distinctive leg structure. The species has been documented through a small number of observations on iNaturalist (7 records), suggesting it may be underreported or genuinely uncommon.
Hoplia trifasciata
three-lined hoplia, three lined hoplium
Hoplia trifasciata is a species of scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae. It occurs in eastern North America, ranging from Canada through the eastern United States. The species is relatively small and belongs to a genus commonly known as hoplia beetles or monkey beetles.
Laphria sericea
Laphria sericea is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It is part of a species complex within the genus Laphria, which includes several bumble bee-mimicking species. The species is known from the eastern United States, with records from Vermont and other states.
Leuctra ferruginea
Eastern Needlefly
Leuctra ferruginea, commonly known as the eastern needlefly, is a species of rolled-winged stonefly in the family Leuctridae. It is found in North America, with distribution records from the eastern and southeastern United States including Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is associated with aquatic habitats during its immature stages.
Lipocosma adelalis
A small crambid moth described by Kearfott in 1903, known from scattered records across the eastern United States. Adults are active during summer months and are characterized by a wingspan of approximately 11 mm. The species appears to be uncommon to rare, with limited ecological data available.
Lymeon orbus
Lymeon orbus is a species of ichneumon wasp in the family Ichneumonidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1835. It is known from the Eastern United States. As a member of the large and diverse ichneumonid family, it is presumed to be a parasitoid wasp, though specific host associations and detailed biology remain poorly documented. The genus Lymeon contains multiple species, with L. orbus being among the earlier described members.
Lytrosis sinuosa
sinuous lytrosis moth
Lytrosis sinuosa, the sinuous lytrosis moth, is a species of geometrid moth in the family Geometridae. It was described by Rindge in 1971. The species is found in the eastern United States, ranging from New Jersey south to northern Florida and west to Mississippi. Adults have a wingspan of 24–29 mm, with females larger than males.
Magicicada septendecula
Decula Periodical Cicada
Magicicada septendecula is one of three species of 17-year periodical cicadas endemic to the eastern United States. It is typically the rarest of the three species in mixed-species populations and exhibits stronger habitat specificity than its congeners. The species prefers upland woodland habitats dominated by hickories and walnuts, particularly Carya glabra (pignut hickory), and shows a strong association with Juglandaceae host trees. First described in 1962, it has been recorded from Connecticut southward through the eastern states, with the northeastern-most record from Totoket Mountain in North Branford, Connecticut in 2013. M. septendecula is distinguished from M. septendecim by its smaller body size and hind tibial length (less than 6.3 mm versus 6.3 mm or greater). The species exhibits greater susceptibility to delayed emergence compared to other Magicicada species, which may contribute to its comparative rarity.
Margarinotus faedatus
clown beetle
Margarinotus faedatus is a species of clown beetle in the family Histeridae. It is found in North America, with records from eastern Canada and the eastern United States.
Martyringa latipennis
Square-spotted Martyringa Moth
Martyringa latipennis is a small moth in the family Lecithoceridae, commonly known as the Square-spotted Martyringa Moth. It is found across the eastern and central United States, with adults active from late spring through mid-summer. The species is recognized by its distinctive wing pattern featuring pale ochreous forewings with brownish-fuscous clouding and a characteristic pale fascia.
Mermiria intertexta
Coastal Toothpick Grasshopper, Eastern Mermiria
Mermiria intertexta, commonly known as the Coastal Toothpick Grasshopper or Eastern Mermiria, is a slant-faced grasshopper in the family Acrididae. It is distributed along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the eastern United States. The species belongs to the genus Mermiria, which includes several closely related slant-faced grasshoppers found in North American grasslands.
Metachroma quercatum
Orange-shouldered Metachroma
Metachroma quercatum is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 3.2–4.2 mm in length. The species is distributed across the eastern United States from Texas to Florida and north to New York and Kansas. Its specific epithet references Quercus (oak), indicating an association with oak as a host plant.
Metacmaeops
Metacmaeops is a genus of longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) in the subfamily Lepturinae, tribe Rhagiini. The genus is monotypic, containing only Metacmaeops vittata, a species distributed in the eastern United States. Members of this genus are associated with mesic forest habitats and have been documented as flower visitors.
Miktoniscus spinosus
Eastern Mikto
Miktoniscus spinosus is a small terrestrial isopod in the family Trichoniscidae, commonly known as the Eastern Mikto. It belongs to the suborder Oniscidea, which encompasses the familiar woodlice and pill bugs. The species is native to the eastern United States, with documented presence in New England. As a member of the Synocheta, it represents one of the more derived lineages of terrestrial isopods.
Miogryllus saussurei
eastern striped cricket
Miogryllus saussurei, commonly known as the eastern striped cricket, is a cricket species in the family Gryllidae. It is native to the eastern United States. The species was described by Scudder in 1877.
Monocrepidius lividus
Click beetle, Wireworm beetle
Monocrepidius lividus is a click beetle in the family Elateridae, native to Europe and introduced to the eastern United States. It is one of the most frequently observed elaterid species on iNaturalist, with over 5,700 records. The species belongs to a genus that was historically conflated with related click beetle taxa, and its nomenclature has undergone revision.
Morrisonia mucens
Gray Woodgrain Moth, gray woodgrain
Morrisonia mucens, commonly known as the gray woodgrain moth, is a small noctuid moth with a wingspan of approximately 29 mm. It occurs across the southeastern and eastern United States, from coastal Massachusetts south to Florida and west to Texas. The species has one generation per year.
Myolepta varipes
Orange-banded Pegleg, Orange-banded Spineleg
Myolepta varipes is an uncommon syrphid fly found in the eastern United States. Adults visit flowers for nectar and pollen. The species is distinguished by orange banding on the legs. Larvae of the genus develop in rot holes of deciduous trees.
Nearctitychus sternalis
Nearctitychus sternalis is a small rove beetle (Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) described by Raffray in 1904. It belongs to the tribe Tychini, a group of minute beetles often associated with leaf litter and soil habitats. The species is known from the eastern United States.
Neoconocephalus retusus
Round-tipped Conehead
Neoconocephalus retusus, commonly known as the round-tipped conehead, is a species of katydid in the family Tettigoniidae. Adults range from 37 to 52 mm in length and are active during late summer and autumn. The species is found in the eastern United States and southern Canada, typically in wet grassy and weedy habitats.
Neotibicen davisi
Davis's Southeastern Dog-day Cicada, Southern Dog-day Cicada, Davis' Southeastern Dog-day Cicada
Neotibicen davisi is an annual cicada species in the family Cicadidae, named in honor of North American cicada specialist William Thompson Davis. The species comprises two recognized subspecies: N. d. davisi and N. d. harnedi. Like other dog-day cicadas, it emerges during mid- to late summer rather than in spring like periodical cicadas.
Neotibicen davisi harnedi
Mississippi Scissor-Grinder
Neotibicen davisi harnedi is a subspecies of annual cicada in the family Cicadidae. It is part of the dog-day cicada group, which emerge during mid- to late summer. The species was originally described as Tibicen davisi var. harnedi by Davis in 1918. Like other Neotibicen species, it spends multiple years underground as a nymph before emerging as an adult.
Onomeris
Onomeris is a genus of pill millipedes endemic to the eastern United States. First described by Orator F. Cook in 1896, the genus was briefly considered the type of its own family Onomeridae before being placed in Glomeridae based on similarities to the European genus Glomeris. The genus contains three recognized species: O. underwoodii, O. sinuata, and O. australora. Onomeris millipedes are notably smaller than other Glomeridae genera, measuring less than 5 mm in length.
Pandeleteius hilaris
Eastern Diamond-necked Weevil
Pandeleteius hilaris is a species of broad-nosed weevil in the beetle family Curculionidae, first described by Herbst in 1797. It is native to and distributed across eastern and southeastern North America. The species is commonly known as the Eastern Diamond-necked Weevil. As a member of the broad-nosed weevil group, it possesses the characteristic short, broad rostrum typical of this subfamily. Based on iNaturalist observations, it appears to be relatively well-documented in its native range.
Paraphlepsius dentatus
Paraphlepsius dentatus is a species of leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, subfamily Deltocephalinae. The species was first described by Baker in 1898. It is a member of the genus Paraphlepsius, which belongs to the tribe Pendarini. This leafhopper has been documented as a prey item for the sand wasp Clitemnestra bipunctata, indicating it occupies a position in food webs involving predatory wasps.
Parhelophilus integer
Shiny Bog Fly
Parhelophilus integer, commonly known as the shiny bog fly, is a rare syrphid fly species found in the Eastern United States. Adults are flower-associated, feeding on nectar and pollen. The species exhibits typical hoverfly flight behavior, capable of remaining nearly motionless in flight. Larvae develop in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments with the characteristic long-tailed 'rat-tailed' morphology shared by other members of the genus.
Perimede ricina
Perimede ricina is a small moth described by Ronald W. Hodges in 1962. The species is currently classified in the family Momphidae, though it was historically placed in Cosmopterigidae. It occurs in eastern and central North America, with records spanning from Louisiana to Massachusetts. Adults are active primarily during spring through fall, with some late-season activity in November.
Photuris frontalis
Snappy Single Sync
Photuris frontalis is a firefly species distinguished by its synchronous-flashing behavior, where males coordinate their light displays in unison. It occurs in isolated sub-populations across the Eastern United States, with notable abundance in several State and National Parks where its mating displays attract tourists. The species inhabits diverse environments ranging from cypress wetlands in Florida to semi-xeric pine-oak-hickory woodlands in Delaware. Its common name 'Snappy Single Sync' refers to its characteristic flash pattern.
Photuris hebes
heebie-jeebies, slow-hitch firefly
Photuris hebes is a medium-sized firefly species in the family Lampyridae, native to the eastern United States. Adults measure 10–12 mm and are distinguished by their brown to nearly black elytra with pale margins and variable pronotal coloration. Males signal with quick single flashes repeated approximately every second during summer evenings, with flash rate varying by temperature. The species is one of several in the genus Photuris known for aggressive mimicry of other firefly species.
Phyllecthris dorsalis
Leaf beetle
Phyllecthris dorsalis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has been recorded from the eastern United States. The species is associated with Fabaceae host plants, specifically Amorpha and Desmodium species.
Phyllocnistis liriodendronella
Tulip Tree Leaf Miner
Phyllocnistis liriodendronella is a microlepidopteran moth in the family Gracillariidae, commonly known as the Tulip Tree Leaf Miner. The species is known from the eastern United States, where its larvae create distinctive serpentine mines on the leaves of host plants in the magnolia family. It is one of numerous Phyllocnistis species specialized as leaf miners on woody plants.
Phyllonorycter mildredae
A small leaf-mining moth in the family Gracillariidae, described in 2001. Adults have forewings 2.4–3 mm in length. The species is likely more widespread than current records indicate, with confirmed reports from Washington D.C., Kentucky, and Ohio. Larvae create blotch mines on leaves of poplars and willows.
Phyllophaga latifrons
May beetle, junebug
Phyllophaga latifrons is a species of scarab beetle in the genus Phyllophaga, commonly known as May beetles or junebugs. The species was originally described by LeConte in 1856 under the name Lachnosterna latifrons. It is found in the eastern and southeastern United States, with records from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.
Phytocoris erectus
Phytocoris erectus is a species of plant bug in the family Miridae, described by Van Duzee in 1920. Like other members of the genus Phytocoris, it is typically gray or brown in coloration and primarily associated with plant-feeding habits, though some predation on smaller insects has been observed in related species. The species occurs in the eastern United States.
Pilophorus gracilis
Pilophorus gracilis is a species of plant bug in the family Miridae, first described by Uhler in 1895. It is native to North America and has been documented in the eastern United States, with records from states including Alabama, Colorado, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Georgia, Michigan, Mississippi, and West Virginia. As a member of the genus Pilophorus, it belongs to a group of mirid bugs commonly known as thread bugs or moss bugs, though specific ecological details for this species remain limited in published literature.
Pilophorus laetus
Pilophorus laetus is a species of plant bug in the family Miridae, first described by Heidemann in 1892. It belongs to a genus known for ant-mimicking morphology and behavior. The species has been documented in eastern United States including Georgia, Mississippi, Washington D.C., and West Virginia.
Pisaurina dubia
Pisaurina dubia is a nursery web spider in the family Pisauridae, found across the southern two-thirds of the eastern United States. It is smaller than most pisaurids, measuring 12–15 mm in body length, and overwinters as a subadult before maturing in spring. The species is distinguished by a central tuft of hair projecting from between the eyes on the cephalothorax. Females construct nursery webs in vegetation to protect their egg sacs and guard spiderlings until they disperse.
Plagiognathus blatchleyi
Blatchley's mirid
Plagiognathus blatchleyi, commonly known as Blatchley's mirid, is a species of plant bug in the family Miridae. It belongs to the large genus Plagiognathus, which contains numerous mirid species primarily associated with vegetation. The species was described by Reuter in 1912. It is recorded from the eastern United States.
Pleuroloma
Pleurolomas
Pleuroloma is a genus of flat-backed millipedes in the family Xystodesmidae, distinguished by its great age, extensive geographic range, and ecological adaptability. The genus comprises four recognized species, with P. flavipes being the most widespread, ranging from the eastern Atlantic Coast to the central Great Plains. Members exhibit distinctive aggregating and migrating behaviors, particularly P. flavipes, which may contribute to its broad distribution. The genus is unique within Xystodesmidae for these behavioral traits and its ability to colonize diverse habitats.
Polistes annularis
Ringed Paper Wasp, Jack Spaniard Wasp, Red Paper Wasp
Polistes annularis is a primitively eusocial paper wasp native to the eastern United States, distinguished by its large size and distinctive red-and-black coloration with a prominent yellow ring on the abdomen. The species exhibits complex social behavior including cooperative nest founding by multiple foundresses, dominance hierarchies, and unique overwintering strategies involving honey storage. Nests are constructed in aggregations under overhangs near water bodies, with colonies typically containing 500 or more cells. Unlike many temperate Polistes species, P. annularis shows relatively robust cold tolerance and has been extensively studied as a model organism for social insect behavior and kin recognition.
social-wasppaper-waspprimitively-eusocialnest-aggregationoverwinteringhoney-storageMüllerian-mimicryfoundress-associationdominance-hierarchykin-recognitioncold-tolerancemodel-organismcaterpillar-predatorriparian-habitatannual-colony-cyclequeen-successioncuticular-hydrocarbonssubgenus-AphanilopterusPolistinaeVespidaeHymenopteraeastern-United-Statesred-and-black-colorationringed-abdomenorange-antennaecliff-nestinghibernaculausurpationaltruismreproductive-competitionjuvenile-hormoneovarian-developmentmicrosatellite-markersmaternity-assignmentbehavioral-ecologysocial-insectnest-architecturepetiole-constructionfoundress-evictionworker-emergencesexual-dimorphismstructural-sex-determinationtrehalosecold-survivalant-predationparasitoidElasmus-polistisChalcoela-iphitalisbiological-controlpollinatorsting-allergenantigen-5Linnaeus-1763Fabricius-1804etymology-Greek-polistesLatin-annularis-ringedPolyamia interrupta
Polyamia interrupta is a species of leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, subfamily Deltocephalinae. It was described by DeLong in 1916 and is currently accepted as a valid species. The genus Polyamia belongs to the tribe Deltocephalini, a diverse group of leafhoppers within the superfamily Membracoidea. Distribution records indicate occurrence in the eastern and midwestern United States.
Pseudoxenetus regalis
Eastern Regal Oak Mirid
Pseudoxenetus regalis is a plant bug in the family Miridae, commonly known as the Eastern Regal Oak Mirid. This species belongs to the order Hemiptera, the true bugs, characterized by piercing-sucking mouthparts. It has been documented across the eastern and southeastern United States.
Rupela segrega
Rupela segrega is a moth species in the family Crambidae, described by Carl Heinrich in 1937. It is known from a limited range in the eastern United States, with records from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Maryland. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in wingspan, with males measuring 26–33 mm and females 28–38 mm. Adults are active during two distinct periods: spring (April–July) and fall (September–October).
Scaphytopius fulvus
Scaphytopius fulvus is a species of leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, subfamily Deltocephalinae. Described by Osborn in 1905, this small true bug belongs to a genus containing numerous North American species. Leafhoppers in this genus are known to feed on plant sap using piercing-sucking mouthparts. The specific epithet "fulvus" refers to the tawny or yellowish-brown coloration typical of many species in this group.
Staphylus hayhurstii
Hayhurst's scallopwing
Hayhurst's scallopwing is a small skipper butterfly found across the eastern and central United States. Adults have a wingspan of 25–32 mm and are active from spring through late summer, with extended flight periods in southern regions. The species shows variable seasonality, with two generations in most of its range but year-round activity possible in Florida.
Strigodius robinsoni
Strigodius robinsoni is a species of dung beetle in the family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Aphodiinae. It was described by Cartwright in 1939. The species is known from the eastern United States, with records from Alabama, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and West Virginia. Like other members of the genus Strigodius, it is presumably associated with decaying organic matter and dung.
Suphisellus semipunctatus
Suphisellus semipunctatus is a small burrowing water beetle in the family Noteridae, measuring 2.3–2.6 mm in length. The species was originally described as Suphis semipunctatus by LeConte in 1878 and has also been placed in the genus Pronoterus. It occurs in the eastern United States, ranging west to Texas and Michigan.
Temnostoma daochus
Yellow-spotted Falsehorn
Temnostoma daochus is a rare syrphid fly species in the eastern United States, notable for its elaborate Batesian mimicry of solitary mason wasps. It exhibits both morphological and behavioral mimicry, including darkened wing edges that imitate vespid wing folds and deliberate foreleg movements that mimic wasp antennae. The species is closely related to T. barberi, with which it forms a lineage sister to the rest of the genus. Larvae develop in moist decayed wood.
Thaumatographa jonesi
Psychedelic Jones Moth
Thaumatographa jonesi, commonly known as the Psychedelic Jones Moth, is a tortricid moth species found in pine forests of the eastern and southeastern United States. The species was described by Brower in 1953 and is currently classified in the genus Thaumatographa, though it was previously placed in Hilarographa. Its range extends from Massachusetts south to Florida and west to Louisiana.
Theromaster
armoured harvestmen
Theromaster is a genus of armoured harvestmen (Opiliones) established by Briggs in 1969. The genus contains at least two described species: Theromaster archeri and Theromaster brunneus. Members of this genus are found in the eastern United States. Theromaster belongs to the family Cladonychiidae, though some sources historically placed it in Travuniidae.
Timulla hollensis
Timulla hollensis is a species of wingless wasp in the family Mutillidae, commonly known as velvet ants. The species is part of a genus noted for aposematic coloration and a potent sting. Males are winged while females are wingless and ant-like in appearance. The species has been documented in the eastern United States, with observations spanning multiple states.
Tipula aprilina
Tipula aprilina is a species of large crane fly in the family Tipulidae. It was described by Alexander in 1918 and is found in the eastern United States, ranging from Maine south to Tennessee and South Carolina. As a member of the genus Tipula, it belongs to one of the most species-rich genera of crane flies.
Tipula subeluta
Tipula subeluta is a species of crane fly in the family Tipulidae, described by Johnson in 1913. It is a member of the large genus Tipula, which contains hundreds of species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. The species is recorded from the eastern United States, with distribution extending from Massachusetts southward to Louisiana and Florida. Like other crane flies, it is a delicate, long-legged insect often mistaken for a giant mosquito, though adults do not bite and most species have short adult lifespans focused on reproduction.
Torymus rugglesi
Torymus rugglesi is a species of chalcidoid wasp in the family Torymidae, described by Milliron in 1959. The species is known from the eastern United States, with distribution records from Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Torymid wasps are typically parasitoids, with many species associated with gall-forming insects or plant galls. Specific biological details for T. rugglesi remain limited in published literature.
Zethus spinipes
Zethus spinipes is a species of stinging wasp in the family Vespidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1837. It is distributed across the eastern United States, with recognized subspecies occupying distinct geographic ranges. The species belongs to the subfamily Eumeninae, commonly known as potter or mason wasps.