Cryptophilus obliteratus
This record describes Cryptophilus obliteratus (species). Recorded family: Erotylidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
has been present in North America for a long time ( 3 )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Erotylidae (Pleasing Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Xenoscelinae
- Genus
- Cryptophilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to E. Asia, adventive elsewhere: Europe since 1982 , NA (ON-MA-MD to MN-AR)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptophilus obliteratus. 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 Cryptophilus obliteratus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Bbarnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptophilus obliteratus
What is Cryptophilus obliteratus?
Cryptophilus obliteratus is a species in the family Erotylidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptophilus obliteratus?
2.4-3.1 mm
Where is Cryptophilus obliteratus found?
Range: native to E. Asia, adventive elsewhere: Europe since 1982 , NA (ON-MA-MD to MN-AR)