Antherophagus similis
This record describes Antherophagus similis (species). Recorded family: Cryptophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 3.5 to 5 mm. A brownish-yellow beetle. Quite similar to Antherophagus pallens but Antherophagus similis has a basally narrowed pronotum (not widest at the base) and a fine rim above the pronotal fore angle. Good quality photographs required – detailed examination may be necessary. Associated with the nests of bees. Adults have been recorded on flowers and vegetation. May until August or September with a peak in abundance during June and July. Widespread, though sparsely distributed in the southern half of Britain. Less frequent further north. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Cryptophagidae
- Genus
- Antherophagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with the nests of bees. Adults have been recorded on flowers and vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
May until August or September with a peak in abundance during June and July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae develop in the nests of bees.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread, though sparsely distributed in the southern half of Britain. Less frequent further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Antherophagus similis. 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 Antherophagus similis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Antherophagus similis
What is Antherophagus similis?
Antherophagus similis is a species in the family Cryptophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Antherophagus similis?
3.5 to 5 mm. A brownish-yellow beetle.
Where is Antherophagus similis found?
Habitat: Associated with the nests of bees. Adults have been recorded on flowers and vegetation.
When is Antherophagus similis active?
Antherophagus similis: seasonal activity - May until August or September with a peak in abundance during June and July..
What is the life cycle of a Antherophagus similis?
Larvae develop in the nests of bees.