Astenus cinctus
This record describes Astenus cinctus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Prothorax unusually small, much narrower than the head. Body moderately slender, black or piceous-black throughout, the elytra pale in apical two-fifths at the sides and half at the suture, the legs and antennae pale flavotestaceous; head large and well developed, a little longer than wide, abruptly narrowed before the rather small but strongly convex eyes... SPMN - Spencer Entomological Museum
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Paederinae
- Tribe
- Lathrobiini
- Genus
- Astenus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Transcontinental, south to Iowa - Canada (AB,BC,NB,NS,QC), USA (IA,ID,NY,OR)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Astenus cinctus (Say 1834)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Astenus cinctus. 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 Astenus cinctus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Russell Rogers
Frequently Asked Questions About Astenus cinctus
What is Astenus cinctus?
Astenus cinctus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Astenus cinctus?
Length 3.3-3.7 mm; width 0.65 mm
How do you identify Astenus cinctus?
Prothorax unusually small, much narrower than the head. Body moderately slender, black or piceous-black throughout, the elytra pale in apical two-fifths at the sides and half at the suture, the legs and antennae pale flavotestaceous; head large and well developed, a little longer than wide, abruptly narrowed before the rather small but strongly convex eyes... SPMN - Spencer Entomological Museum
Where is Astenus cinctus found?
Range: Transcontinental, south to Iowa - Canada (AB,BC,NB,NS,QC), USA (IA,ID,NY,OR)