Atheta capsularis
This record describes Atheta capsularis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Can be confused with Atheta terranovae , but is larger, have the elytra yellowish, and by the male tergite and the shape of the median lobe
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aleocharinae
- Tribe
- Athetini
- Genus
- Atheta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Canada (LB, NF, ON, QC, YT)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Atheta capsularis Klimaszewski 2005
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Atheta capsularis. 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.