Atomaria ephippiata
This record describes Atomaria ephippiata (species). Recorded family: Cryptophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytral pattern distinctive within this genus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Cryptophagidae (Silken Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Atomariinae
- Tribe
- Atomariini
- Genus
- Atomaria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
on fungi and molds in litter and nests
Geographic Range
transcontinental across n. NA (NF-BC to NY-WI-OR) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Atomaria ephippiata Zimmermann, 1869
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Atomaria ephippiata. 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 Atomaria ephippiata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , mfdigiro
Frequently Asked Questions About Atomaria ephippiata
What is Atomaria ephippiata?
Atomaria ephippiata is a species in the family Cryptophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Atomaria ephippiata?
1.5–1.6 mm
How do you identify Atomaria ephippiata?
Elytral pattern distinctive within this genus.
Where is Atomaria ephippiata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | on fungi and molds in litter and nests |
| Range | transcontinental across n. NA (NF-BC to NY-WI-OR) - Map |