Contacyphon punctatus
This record describes Contacyphon punctatus (species). Recorded family: Scirtidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Male genitalia are diagnostic. Fairly strongly setose and pronotum granulose Det. Brad Barnd, 2023 Type localities: South Carolina and New York Previously considered a synonym of Cyphon variabilis , but genitalia differences led Tetrault ( 3 ) to resurrect this as a valid species. His change was followed by Epler ( 4 ) .
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
mostly n.NA (YT-BC to QC-NY), but also records from WV, NC, TX , plus one lit. spmn record from n.FL that Epler consideres questionable
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Contacyphon punctatus. 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 punctatus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Contacyphon punctatus
What is Contacyphon punctatus?
Contacyphon punctatus is a species in the family Scirtidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Contacyphon punctatus?
TBD. 2 to 3 mm likely
How do you identify Contacyphon punctatus?
Male genitalia are diagnostic. Fairly strongly setose and pronotum granulose Det. Brad Barnd, 2023
Where is Contacyphon punctatus found?
Range: mostly n.NA (YT-BC to QC-NY), but also records from WV, NC, TX , plus one lit. spmn record from n.FL that Epler consideres questionable