Atomaria lewisi
This record describes Atomaria lewisi (species). Recorded family: Cryptophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
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
especially around farms & in gardens/parks (heaps of refuse, esp. cut vegetation, hay, grass, compost) but also in other habitats
Geographic Range
widely dist. (NF-ON to GA-TX-CA) - Map , native to Asia
Diet and Behavior
Life History
comes to lights (BG data)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Atomaria lewisi. 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 lewisi (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Atomaria lewisi
How big is Atomaria lewisi?
1.3–1.6 mm
Where is Atomaria lewisi found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | especially around farms & in gardens/parks (heaps of refuse, esp. cut vegetation, hay, grass, compost) but also in other habitats |
| Range | widely dist. (NF-ON to GA-TX-CA) - Map , native to Asia |
What is the life cycle of a Atomaria lewisi?
comes to lights (BG data)