Bitoma sulcata
This record describes Bitoma sulcata (species). Recorded family: Zopheridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
the last segment (ninth) of its antenna is twice as wide as the eighth. (CBP) Type Locality: Colorado River, about Fort Yuma, Imperial Co., California
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
appear in the oak zones in deserts, through lower canyons, and occasionally they will settle down in a packrat's nest. (CBP)
Geographic Range
mostly s. CA to s. TX / Mex. - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: sulcata (L). 'grooved'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bitoma sulcata. 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 sulcata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Hartmut Wisch , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Bitoma sulcata
What is Bitoma sulcata?
Bitoma sulcata is a species in the family Zopheridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Bitoma sulcata?
2.3-3.1 mm (CBP)
How do you identify Bitoma sulcata?
the last segment (ninth) of its antenna is twice as wide as the eighth. (CBP)
Where is Bitoma sulcata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | appear in the oak zones in deserts, through lower canyons, and occasionally they will settle down in a packrat's nest. (CBP) |
| Range | mostly s. CA to s. TX / Mex. - Map |