Atomaria mesomela
This record describes Atomaria mesomela (species). Recorded family: Cryptophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum laterally convex, widest at about middle, black; elytra with apical half red, border between colours sharply defined (in other NA Atomaria with black pronotum elytra may be paler apically, but gradually so)
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
In Europe, rather common in meadows and wetlands
Geographic Range
Palearctic species, also recorded in the Nearctic (so far reliably recorded in California only)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Atomaria mesomela (Herbst 1793)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Atomaria mesomela. 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 mesomela (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Atomaria mesomela
What is Atomaria mesomela?
Atomaria mesomela is a species in the family Cryptophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Atomaria mesomela?
1.3-1.7 mm
How do you identify Atomaria mesomela?
Pronotum laterally convex, widest at about middle, black; elytra with apical half red, border between colours sharply defined (in other NA Atomaria with black pronotum elytra may be paler apically, but gradually so)
Where is Atomaria mesomela found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | In Europe, rather common in meadows and wetlands |
| Range | Palearctic species, also recorded in the Nearctic (so far reliably recorded in California only) |