Ataeniopsis figurator
This record describes Ataeniopsis figurator (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
among the most common beetles at lights at Laguna Atascosa NWR, TX ( 3 )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aphodiinae
- Tribe
- Eupariini
- Genus
- Ataeniopsis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e US (PA-FL to IN-MO-NM) to Mexico
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ataeniopsis figurator (Harold 1874)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ataeniopsis figurator. 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 Ataeniopsis figurator (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ataeniopsis figurator
What is Ataeniopsis figurator?
Ataeniopsis figurator is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ataeniopsis figurator?
3-4 mm
Where is Ataeniopsis figurator found?
Range: e US (PA-FL to IN-MO-NM) to Mexico