[1][2][3] The banded net-winged beetle, Calopteron discrepans (Newman), is distributed across the eastern United States, ranging from New England south to Florida and west to Oklahoma and Kansas.

[4] Recently, some banded net-winged beetles have been found as far north as Manitoba and Quebec, extending the area of their geographical range.

[5] Calopteron beetles exhibit subtle variations in appearance, with three distinct species identified in North America and Northern Mexico.

However, subtle distinctions can be observed primarily based on the coloration of the metasternum and the second antennal segment, providing key features necessary for species identification.

Additionally, when viewed from the side, the elytra of C. terminale exhibit a wavy appearance with a small depression anterior to the apical band.

If a median band is present in C. terminale, it is not produced along the suture toward the bases of the elytra, further adding to the complexity of species differentiation.

[5] The larvae of Calopteron discrepans are characterized by a dark black coloration with burnt-orange patches, contributing to their distinct appearance within their habitat.

This distinct coloration aids in their camouflage and provides protection against potential predators as they navigate their environment in search of prey or suitable habitat for development.

During the pupal stage, Calopteron larvae aggregate in large numbers, forming shingled masses containing hundreds of pupae.

This notable behavior, observed in Calopteron species, plays a crucial role in their ecological dynamics and potential adaptive strategies.

These aggregations provide a communal defense mechanism against predators and environmental stressors, enhancing the survival rate of the developing pupae.

Additionally, the formation of these aggregations likely serves as a strategy to optimize resource utilization and increase the efficiency of pupal development, ensuring the successful transition to adulthood.

This dietary versatility may contribute to their ecological success within their respective habitats and may allow them to exploit a wide range of food resources and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

However, the larvae of net-winged beetles, including Calopteron discrepans, are known to crawl under the bark of trees, serving as predators of small arthropods and consumers of rotting wood.

Additionally, these larvae consume rotting wood, participating in the decomposition process and facilitating nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems.