Ataenius stephani
This record describes Ataenius stephani (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
Once a rare riparian species, it is now a turf species on irrigated lawns (P.E. Skelley, pers.comm.)
Geographic Range
CA‒AZ, TX, Mexico , spreading with sod used on golf courses (P.E. Skelley, pers.comm.)
Seasonal Activity
9.iv‒19.ix
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ataenius stephani Cartwright 1974
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ataenius stephani. 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 stephani (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Ataenius stephani
How big is Ataenius stephani?
4.8‒5.2 mm
Where is Ataenius stephani found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Once a rare riparian species, it is now a turf species on irrigated lawns (P.E. Skelley, pers.comm.) |
| Range | CA‒AZ, TX, Mexico , spreading with sod used on golf courses (P.E. Skelley, pers.comm.) |
When is Ataenius stephani active?
Ataenius stephani: seasonal activity - 9.iv‒19.ix.