Anthrenus thoracicus
This record describes Anthrenus thoracicus (species). Recorded family: Dermestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. Andreas Herrmann, 2016 relatively uncommon (Beal 1983)
Identification notes
Det. Andreas Herrmann, 2016
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Dermestidae (Carpet Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Megatominae
- Tribe
- Anthrenini
- Genus
- Anthrenus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US (e TX-GA-PA-s IL) - Map (Beal 1983) , mostly c. US
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Anthrenus thoracicus Melsheimer 1844
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Anthrenus thoracicus. 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 Anthrenus thoracicus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Anthrenus thoracicus
What is Anthrenus thoracicus?
Anthrenus thoracicus is a species in the family Dermestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Anthrenus thoracicus?
2–4 mm
How do you identify Anthrenus thoracicus?
Det. Andreas Herrmann, 2016
Where is Anthrenus thoracicus found?
Range: e. US (e TX-GA-PA-s IL) - Map (Beal 1983) , mostly c. US