Question

Photo of specimen with a US quarter (~24 mm diameter) for size reference. Please help identify what left behind this casing. It was found in middle of the yard, approximately 25 feet from nearest tree but was near a lumber pile if that is relevant. Located in south Central Colorado. Appears to be a winged beetle of some kind Note: I'm no expert and not even from North America, so take this with a grain of salt. I think this is aMay Beetle(Phyllophagagenus) or possibly a Junebug from the widespread scarab family of beetles. The adults range in size from about 12-25 mm (0.5-1.0"). A distinguishing characteristic of the scarabs is the linear ridges along the wing-casings and the beautiful stippling of the elytra (wing casings). Unfortunately you seem to have lost the antennae, which, if they are scarabs, have an enlarged club-shaped tip. It has an exposedscutellumand straight edges to the elytra, which are also features of the May beetle/Junebug family (Melolonthinae) The Scarab family are a common pest of grass-lands and trees world-wide, and this genus is no exception - the name literally translates as "leaf-eater" (phyllo - leaf, phaga = eater).

Answer 1

The insect casing found in Colorado likely belongs to a beetle from the scarab family, potentially a May Beetle or Junebug, characterized by its linear-ridged wing casings and stippling of the elytra.

Step-by-step explanation:

The specimen in question, which was found in a yard in south-central Colorado and compared in size to a US quarter, appears to resemble casings left by a beetle, potentially from the Phyllophaga genus, which includes May Beetles or Junebugs. The key features such as linear ridges on the wing casings and the stippling of the elytra align with the characteristics of the scarab family of beetles. This family of beetles is noted for their impact on grass-lands and trees, and they are known for their leaf-eating habits, hence the genus name translating to "leaf-eater".Furthermore, discussing various insect types and life cycles provides further context for understanding the diversity within the group of Hexapoda.

Complete metamorphosis, as seen in beetles, contrasts the incomplete metamorphosis in insects such as cockroaches and crickets. The enormous variety in insects, due to their varied wing, leg, and mouthpart morphology, sets the stage for insect identification and understanding their ecological roles.The casing you found appears to be from a winged beetle, possibly a May Beetle or Junebug from the scarab family of beetles. The adult beetles in this family range in size from about 12-25 mm (0.5-1.0 inch) and have linear ridges along their wing casings and stippling on their elytra (wing casings). Scarabs are common pests of grasslands and trees worldwide and are known for their leaf-eating habits.