Aeletes politus
This record describes Aeletes politus (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of a few histerids collected regularly at UV lights
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Abraeinae
- Tribe
- Acritini
- Genus
- Aeletes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
forest floor litter, log litter, bracket fungi, tree holes, compost
Geographic Range
e. NA (NS-ON to FL-e.TX) (+isolated AB record) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Aeletes politus (J.L. LeConte 1853)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Aeletes politus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Aeletes politus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by McClarinJ , Jeff Gruber , Bbarnd , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Aeletes politus
What is Aeletes politus?
Aeletes politus is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Aeletes politus?
0.8-1.0 mm
Where is Aeletes politus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | forest floor litter, log litter, bracket fungi, tree holes, compost |
| Range | e. NA (NS-ON to FL-e.TX) (+isolated AB record) - Map |