Ataenius gracilis
This record describes Ataenius gracilis (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aphodiinae
- Tribe
- Eupariini
- Genus
- Ataenius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
detritus, leaf litter (not recorded from dung)
Geographic Range
QC‒ON to FL‒CA to S.America, W.Indies, Pacific Islands
Seasonal Activity
Mar‒Nov in Brazos Co., TX (=v=)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ataenius gracilis (Melsheimer 1844)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ataenius gracilis. 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 Ataenius gracilis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by cotinis , john and jane balaban , Phillip Harpootlian , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ataenius gracilis
How big is Ataenius gracilis?
2.5‒3.5 mm
Where is Ataenius gracilis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | detritus, leaf litter (not recorded from dung) |
| Range | QC‒ON to FL‒CA to S.America, W.Indies, Pacific Islands |
When is Ataenius gracilis active?
Ataenius gracilis: seasonal activity - Mar‒Nov in Brazos Co., TX (=v=).