Colopterus niger
This record describes Colopterus niger (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum with oblique sulcus in each hind angle
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Nitidulidae (Sap-feeding Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cillaeinae
- Genus
- Colopterus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US (*NJ-MD-FL to WI-*IA-LA) to S. Amer. - Map (*BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Colopterus niger (Say 1823)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Colopterus niger. 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 Colopterus niger (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Moyer; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Colopterus niger
What is Colopterus niger?
Colopterus niger is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Colopterus niger?
3.3-5.4 mm
How do you identify Colopterus niger?
Pronotum with oblique sulcus in each hind angle
Where is Colopterus niger found?
Range: e. US (*NJ-MD-FL to WI-*IA-LA) to S. Amer. - Map (*BG data)