Cryptophagus dentatus
This record describes Cryptophagus dentatus (species). Recorded family: Cryptophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Cryptophagus dentatus (Cryptophagus dentatus) is a species in the family Cryptophagidae, commonly known as silken fungus beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Cryptophaginae, tribe Cryptophagini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Cucujoidea. This species belongs to the genus Cryptophagus. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 1.9-2.9 mm. It is found in Stored produce, fungi, under bark, etc..
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Cryptophagidae (Silken Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cryptophaginae
- Tribe
- Cryptophagini
- Genus
- Cryptophagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Stored produce, fungi, under bark, etc. ( 5 )
Geographic Range
holarctic (across the Palaearctic and NA)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cryptophagus dentatus (Herbst 1793)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptophagus dentatus. 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 Cryptophagus dentatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptophagus dentatus
What is Cryptophagus dentatus?
Cryptophagus dentatus is a species in the family Cryptophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptophagus dentatus?
1.9-2.9 mm
Where is Cryptophagus dentatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Stored produce, fungi, under bark, etc. ( 5 ) |
| Range | holarctic (across the Palaearctic and NA) |
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