Athous acanthus
This record describes Athous acanthus (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Athous acanthus (Athous acanthus) is a species in the family Elateridae, commonly known as click beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Dendrometrinae, tribe Dendrometrini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Elateroidea. This species belongs to the genus Athous. Size: 7.1-11mm. Found in Found on dead branches and vegetation; comes to light. Active during Adults active late spring through summer.
Identification notes
Similar to Athous neacanthus
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dendrometrinae
- Tribe
- Dendrometrini
- Genus
- Athous
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on dead branches and vegetation; comes to light
Geographic Range
e NA (NS-ON to ...)
Seasonal Activity
Adults active late spring through summer
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Athous acanthus (Say 1839)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Athous acanthus. 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 Athous acanthus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by v belov , Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Athous acanthus
What is Athous acanthus?
Athous acanthus is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Athous acanthus?
7.1-11mm
How do you identify Athous acanthus?
Similar to Athous neacanthus
Where is Athous acanthus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Found on dead branches and vegetation; comes to light |
| Range | e NA (NS-ON to ...) |
When is Athous acanthus active?
Athous acanthus: seasonal activity - Adults active late spring through summer.