Catops basilaris
This record describes Catops basilaris (species). Recorded family: Leiodidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Characters of antennae, male gentilia, and female abdominal sternite 7 distinguish this species The most frequently collected Catops species in North America
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Leiodidae (Round Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cholevinae
- Tribe
- Cholevini
- Genus
- Catops
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mostly forested habitats, often at dung/carrion traps
Geographic Range
transcontinental (AK‒NT‒NF south to CA‒NM‒KS‒IL‒TN‒AL‒GA)
Seasonal Activity
collected year-round. Winter active in California and Pacific Northwest, but found more active early spring/late fall in Ontario
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Catops basilaris Say 1823
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Catops basilaris. 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 Catops basilaris (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , pierrickb
Frequently Asked Questions About Catops basilaris
What is Catops basilaris?
Catops basilaris is a species in the family Leiodidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Catops basilaris?
3‒4 mm
How do you identify Catops basilaris?
Characters of antennae, male gentilia, and female abdominal sternite 7 distinguish this species
Where is Catops basilaris found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Mostly forested habitats, often at dung/carrion traps |
| Range | transcontinental (AK‒NT‒NF south to CA‒NM‒KS‒IL‒TN‒AL‒GA) |
When is Catops basilaris active?
Catops basilaris: seasonal activity - collected year-round. Winter active in California and Pacific Northwest, but found more active early spring/late fall in Ontario.