Bassareus detritus
This record describes Bassareus detritus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

The only species in the genus with an opaque pronotum. Det. A. Deczynski, 2011
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cryptocephalinae
- Tribe
- Cryptocephalini
- Genus
- Bassareus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
mostly piedmont?
Geographic Range
e. coast: MA to n.GA - Map , historical records from n.FL and n.AL
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bassareus detritus. 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 Bassareus detritus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Lynette Elliott; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Bassareus detritus
What is Bassareus detritus?
Bassareus detritus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Bassareus detritus?
The only species in the genus with an opaque pronotum. Det. A. Deczynski, 2011
Where is Bassareus detritus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | mostly piedmont? |
| Range | e. coast: MA to n.GA - Map , historical records from n.FL and n.AL |
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