Attalus varians
This record describes Attalus varians (species). Recorded family: Melyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytra are piceous, the tips pale testaceous with the latter color extending along the suture without involving the margin.
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
TX-LA, FL (Liberty Co.) , uncommon
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Attalus varians Horn 1872
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Attalus varians. 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 varians (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Attalus varians
What is Attalus varians?
Attalus varians is a species in the family Melyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Attalus varians?
elytra are piceous, the tips pale testaceous with the latter color extending along the suture without involving the margin.
Where is Attalus varians found?
Range: TX-LA, FL (Liberty Co.) , uncommon