Aphonus castaneus
This record describes Aphonus castaneus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Small (12.2 mm or less), clypeo-frontal carina lacking, clypeus punctate-rugulose, subapical carina of clypeus with middle tooth reduced or lacking, prosternum small/triangular.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dynastinae
- Tribe
- Pentodontini
- Genus
- Aphonus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Eastern U.S., mostly coastal plain distribution from AL to ME, also recorded inland from TN.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Aphonus castaneus. 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 Aphonus castaneus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Aphonus castaneus
What is Aphonus castaneus?
Aphonus castaneus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Aphonus castaneus?
8.6 to 12.2 mm
How do you identify Aphonus castaneus?
Small (12.2 mm or less), clypeo-frontal carina lacking, clypeus punctate-rugulose, subapical carina of clypeus with middle tooth reduced or lacking, prosternum small/triangular.
Where is Aphonus castaneus found?
Range: Eastern U.S., mostly coastal plain distribution from AL to ME, also recorded inland from TN.