Chilothorax distinctus
This record describes Chilothorax distinctus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytral markings variable earliest NA record: MD before 1845
Identification notes
elytral markings variable
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aphodiinae
- Tribe
- Aphodiini
- Genus
- Chilothorax
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to the Palaearctic, adventive and now widespread in NA (BC‒NF to CA‒OK‒IN‒NC‒FL)
Seasonal Activity
mostly spring and fall
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Chilothorax distinctus (O.F. Müller 1776)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Chilothorax distinctus. 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 Chilothorax distinctus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Lynette Elliott , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Chilothorax distinctus
What is Chilothorax distinctus?
Chilothorax distinctus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Chilothorax distinctus?
4.5‒5.5 mm
How do you identify Chilothorax distinctus?
elytral markings variable
Where is Chilothorax distinctus found?
Range: native to the Palaearctic, adventive and now widespread in NA (BC‒NF to CA‒OK‒IN‒NC‒FL)
When is Chilothorax distinctus active?
Chilothorax distinctus: seasonal activity - mostly spring and fall.