Anthicus cervinus
This record describes Anthicus cervinus (species). Recorded family: Anthicidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

One of the most commonly collected anthicids at light across the US and s.Canada. –D.S. Chandler
Wikipedia reference for Anthicus cervinus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthicus_cervinus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Anthicidae (Antlike Flower Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Anthicinae
- Genus
- Anthicus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Adults common under debris, especially in sandy habitats ( 3 )
Geographic Range
throughout NA (NS–BC to FL–CA to Mexico)
Seasonal Activity
spring through fall ( 3 )
Diet and Behavior
Life History
adults overwinter ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Anthicus cervinus LaFerté-Sénectère 1849
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Anthicus cervinus. 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 Anthicus cervinus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Anthicus cervinus
What is Anthicus cervinus?
Anthicus cervinus is a species in the family Anthicidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Anthicus cervinus?
2.9–3.4 mm
Where is Anthicus cervinus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Adults common under debris, especially in sandy habitats ( 3 ) |
| Range | throughout NA (NS–BC to FL–CA to Mexico) |
When is Anthicus cervinus active?
Anthicus cervinus: seasonal activity - spring through fall ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Anthicus cervinus?
adults overwinter ( 3 )
FROM LOOKING IT UP TO GETTING TO KNOW IT
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