Ampedus cordifer
This record describes Ampedus cordifer (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Elaterinae
- Tribe
- Ampedini
- Genus
- Ampedus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Boreal forest, parkland groves; larvae under bark of dead poplar logs
Geographic Range
transcontinental in the north (NF‒AK) south to PA in the east and AZ‒CA in the west
Seasonal Activity
May‒Jul
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ampedus cordifer (LeConte 1859)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ampedus cordifer. 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 Ampedus cordifer (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by Robin McLeod , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ampedus cordifer
How big is Ampedus cordifer?
9‒12 mm
Where is Ampedus cordifer found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Boreal forest, parkland groves; larvae under bark of dead poplar logs |
| Range | transcontinental in the north (NF‒AK) south to PA in the east and AZ‒CA in the west |
When is Ampedus cordifer active?
Ampedus cordifer: seasonal activity - May‒Jul.