Attalus terminalis
This record describes Attalus terminalis (species). Recorded family: Melyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
red apical elytral margins - last key couplet: Elytra black; pale color confined to exact tips (extending narrowly up lateral margin for short distance in most males)
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
e. NA - New England to n. Great Plains - Map
Seasonal Activity
June-July (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Attalus terminalis (Say 1825)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Attalus terminalis. 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 terminalis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Attalus terminalis
What is Attalus terminalis?
Attalus terminalis is a species in the family Melyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Attalus terminalis?
red apical elytral margins - last key couplet: Elytra black; pale color confined to exact tips (extending narrowly up lateral margin for short distance in most males)
Where is Attalus terminalis found?
Range: e. NA - New England to n. Great Plains - Map
When is Attalus terminalis active?
Attalus terminalis: seasonal activity - June-July (BG data).