Astenus discopunctatus
This record describes Astenus discopunctatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
the only NE Astenus with a pale head.- Adam Brunke (BG comm., 2008) no specimen ever has the head in the least dusky 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
NB-SK-s.TX - Map
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Astenus discopunctatus. 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 discopunctatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Thrasher
Frequently Asked Questions About Astenus discopunctatus
What is Astenus discopunctatus?
Astenus discopunctatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Astenus discopunctatus?
Length 3.9 mm; width 53 mm
How do you identify Astenus discopunctatus?
the only NE Astenus with a pale head.- Adam Brunke (BG comm., 2008) no specimen ever has the head in the least dusky SPMN - Spencer Entomological Museum
Where is Astenus discopunctatus found?
Range: NB-SK-s.TX - Map