Attalus rufiventris
This record describes Attalus rufiventris (species). Recorded family: Melyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cleroidea
- Family
- Melyridae (Soft-winged Flower Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Malachiinae
- Tribe
- Malachiini
- Genus
- Attalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
s.CA-e.TX, UT / n. Mex. (BAJA-SON) , mostly OK to s.TX
Seasonal Activity
Mar-May in c. TX ( 4 ) ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Attalus rufiventris Horn, 1872
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Attalus rufiventris. 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 Attalus rufiventris (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Attalus rufiventris
How big is Attalus rufiventris?
3-4 mm (Horn 1872)
Where is Attalus rufiventris found?
Range: s.CA-e.TX, UT / n. Mex. (BAJA-SON) , mostly OK to s.TX
When is Attalus rufiventris active?
Attalus rufiventris: seasonal activity - Mar-May in c. TX ( 4 ) ( 3 ).