Ataenius insculptus
This record describes Ataenius insculptus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
syntype
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
Geographic Range
NJ‒FL‒MS
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Deer dung specialist; does not come to light. Rarely seen. ‒P.E. Skelley
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ataenius insculptus Horn 1887
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ataenius insculptus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ataenius insculptus
How big is Ataenius insculptus?
3.8‒4.8 mm
How do you identify Ataenius insculptus?
syntype
Where is Ataenius insculptus found?
Range: NJ‒FL‒MS
What is the life cycle of a Ataenius insculptus?
Deer dung specialist; does not come to light. Rarely seen. ‒P.E. Skelley