Contacyphon perplexus
This record describes Contacyphon perplexus (species). Recorded family: Scirtidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Coloration is not reliable for identification; positive identification is only possible based on dissected specimens. Most of the images on the guide page here should be treated as general suggestions, not accurate identifications. small pale sp.; last key couplet: elytra yellowish and unmarked, except sometimes with diffuse dark area near base Antennomeres 2 and 3 distinctly shorter than 4 Det. Brad Barnd, 2025 (voucher) Described from 36 [Florida] specimens taken at Dunedin, January 19-March 21; Lake Istokpoga, February 25; Kissimmee River, February 19; Sanford, April 4; Eustis, April 6; Ormond, April 14. second-most widely distributed sp. in FL
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scirtoidea
- Family
- Scirtidae (Marsh Beetles)
- Genus
- Contacyphon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e.US (LA-c.FL-MA, MI)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A common [Florida] insect on the flowers of an Ericad ( Andromeda nitida Bart.) also beaten from oak, myrtle, etc. ( 3 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Contacyphon perplexus. 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 Contacyphon perplexus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Contacyphon perplexus
What is Contacyphon perplexus?
Contacyphon perplexus is a species in the family Scirtidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Contacyphon perplexus?
2.0-2.5 mm
How do you identify Contacyphon perplexus?
Coloration is not reliable for identification; positive identification is only possible based on dissected specimens. Most of the images on the guide page here should be treated as general suggestions, not accurate identifications. small pale sp.; last key couplet: elytra yellowish and unmarked, except sometimes with diffuse dark area near base Antennomeres 2 and 3 distinctly shorter than 4 Det. Brad Barnd, 2025 (voucher)
Where is Contacyphon perplexus found?
Range: e.US (LA-c.FL-MA, MI)
What is the life cycle of a Contacyphon perplexus?
A common [Florida] insect on the flowers of an Ericad ( Andromeda nitida Bart.) also beaten from oak, myrtle, etc. ( 3 )