Blapstinus metallicus
This record describes Blapstinus metallicus (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Body shining, sometimes slightly metallic; both apical & basal pronotal angles prominent; punctures of elytral striae interrupted, with noticeable sections often missing; wings fully developed
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Blaptinae
- Tribe
- Opatrini
- Genus
- Blapstinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often in swampy areas, beaches, and leaf litter
Geographic Range
e. NA to SK - Map State/Province Records:
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Blapstinus metallicus (Fabricius 1801)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Blapstinus metallicus. 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 Blapstinus metallicus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Blapstinus metallicus
What is Blapstinus metallicus?
Blapstinus metallicus is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Blapstinus metallicus?
3.7-5.5 mm
How do you identify Blapstinus metallicus?
Body shining, sometimes slightly metallic; both apical & basal pronotal angles prominent; punctures of elytral striae interrupted, with noticeable sections often missing; wings fully developed
Where is Blapstinus metallicus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Often in swampy areas, beaches, and leaf litter |
| Range | e. NA to SK - Map State/Province Records: |