Bitoma crenata
This record describes Bitoma crenata (species). Recorded family: Zopheridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This small beetle (around 3mm) is sometimes called the Saddle-backed Bitoma and the black 'saddle' on red elytra is a helpful identification guide. It also has characteristic deep ridges along the pronotum. In well wooded areas and parkland where it is usually found beneath bark or on dead timber, though it can sometimes be seen on exposed wood where the bark is missing. It can often be seen in groups of up to a dozen individuals. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Bitoma crenata: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitoma_crenata.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Zopheridae (Ironclad Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Colydiinae
- Tribe
- Synchitini
- Genus
- Bitoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In well wooded areas and parkland where it is usually found beneath bark or on dead timber, though it can sometimes be seen on exposed wood where the bark is missing.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It can often be seen in groups of up to a dozen individuals.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bitoma crenata. 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 Bitoma crenata (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Bitoma crenata
What is Bitoma crenata?
Bitoma crenata is a species in the family Zopheridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Bitoma crenata?
guide. It also has characteristic deep ridges along the pronotum.
Where is Bitoma crenata found?
Habitat: In well wooded areas and parkland where it is usually found beneath bark or on dead timber, though it can sometimes be seen on exposed wood where the bark is missing.
When is Bitoma crenata active?
Bitoma crenata: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Bitoma crenata?
It can often be seen in groups of up to a dozen individuals.