Ampedus fusculus
This record describes Ampedus fusculus (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Lectotype • sutural vitta restricted to 3‒4 intervals, vs broadened over posterior ½‒⅔ in the similar western A. brevis
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
Geographic Range
Widespread in the north (AB‒LB to MN‒NE‒TN)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ampedus fusculus (LeConte 1853)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ampedus fusculus. 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 fusculus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Nicolas Bédard; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ampedus fusculus
What is Ampedus fusculus?
Ampedus fusculus is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ampedus fusculus?
5.0–7.0 mm
How do you identify Ampedus fusculus?
Lectotype • sutural vitta restricted to 3‒4 intervals, vs broadened over posterior ½‒⅔ in the similar western A. brevis
Where is Ampedus fusculus found?
Range: Widespread in the north (AB‒LB to MN‒NE‒TN)