Cryptolestes uncicornis
This record describes Cryptolestes uncicornis (species). Recorded family: Laemophloeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
major males easily recognized by the elongate/sinuate scape with a hooked process
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Laemophloeidae (Lined Flat Bark Beetles)
- Genus
- Cryptolestes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
under bark of hardwood logs, esp. oaks, in FL; in light traps throughout its range ; collected under the Celtis bark in s.TX. (MQ, pers. obs.)
Geographic Range
coastal s.TX‒FL / Mex. to Argentina / W.Indies - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
In some species of Cryptolestes the last larval instar spins a silken cocoon in which to pupate (Roberts & Rilett 1953). They are apparently unique among Coleoptera because the silk is produced from epidermal glands on the prosternum
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cryptolestes uncicornis (Reitter 1876)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptolestes uncicornis. 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 Cryptolestes uncicornis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ted Kropiewnicki; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptolestes uncicornis
What is Cryptolestes uncicornis?
Cryptolestes uncicornis is a species in the family Laemophloeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptolestes uncicornis?
1.3‒1.8 mm
How do you identify Cryptolestes uncicornis?
major males easily recognized by the elongate/sinuate scape with a hooked process
Where is Cryptolestes uncicornis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | under bark of hardwood logs, esp. oaks, in FL; in light traps throughout its range ; collected under the Celtis bark in s.TX. (MQ, pers. obs.) |
| Range | coastal s.TX‒FL / Mex. to Argentina / W.Indies - Map |
What is the life cycle of a Cryptolestes uncicornis?
In some species of Cryptolestes the last larval instar spins a silken cocoon in which to pupate (Roberts & Rilett 1953). They are apparently unique among Coleoptera because the silk is produced from epidermal glands on the prosternum