Amphicrossus niger
This record describes Amphicrossus niger (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Nitidulidae (Sap-feeding Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Amphicrossinae
- Genus
- Amphicrossus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
under the loose outer bark of the Mesquite (Horn 1879)
Geographic Range
so. AZ
Seasonal Activity
May-Sept (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Amphicrossus niger Horn 1879
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Amphicrossus niger. 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 Amphicrossus niger (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Amphicrossus niger
How big is Amphicrossus niger?
4.5 mm (Horn 1879)
Where is Amphicrossus niger found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | under the loose outer bark of the Mesquite (Horn 1879) |
| Range | so. AZ |
When is Amphicrossus niger active?
Amphicrossus niger: seasonal activity - May-Sept (BG data).
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