Branchus whiteheadi
This record describes Branchus whiteheadi (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
usually encrusted with pale coating of soil (Steiner 1991)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Pimeliinae
- Tribe
- Branchini
- Genus
- Branchus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
sw. to c. to s. TX (Steiner 1991)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
flightless (Steiner 1991)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Branchus whiteheadi Steiner 1991
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Branchus whiteheadi. 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 Branchus whiteheadi (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Branchus whiteheadi
What is Branchus whiteheadi?
Branchus whiteheadi is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Branchus whiteheadi?
6.0-8.3 mm (Steiner 1991)
How do you identify Branchus whiteheadi?
usually encrusted with pale coating of soil (Steiner 1991)
Where is Branchus whiteheadi found?
Range: sw. to c. to s. TX (Steiner 1991)
What is the life cycle of a Branchus whiteheadi?
flightless (Steiner 1991)