Brathinus varicornis
This record describes Brathinus varicornis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The white tipped antennae separate it from B. nitidus (all brown antennae) - D.S. Chandler
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Omaliinae
- Tribe
- Anthophagini
- Genus
- Brathinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US & adjacent Canada (QC-NJ to ON-MI)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Brathinus varicornis LeConte 1852
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brathinus varicornis. 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 Brathinus varicornis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by v belov , metrioptera
Frequently Asked Questions About Brathinus varicornis
What is Brathinus varicornis?
Brathinus varicornis is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Brathinus varicornis?
3.2-3.8 mm
How do you identify Brathinus varicornis?
The white tipped antennae separate it from B. nitidus (all brown antennae) - D.S. Chandler
Where is Brathinus varicornis found?
Range: e. US & adjacent Canada (QC-NJ to ON-MI)