Dorcatoma falli
This record describes Dorcatoma falli (species). Recorded family: Ptinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Ptinidae (Death-watch and Spider Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dorcatominae
- Tribe
- Dorcatomini
- Genus
- Dorcatoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e NA to MT, absent Deep South (NS-ON-MT to SC-MO)
Seasonal Activity
mid-May to early Aug in WI
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Dorcatoma falli White 1965
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dorcatoma falli. 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 Dorcatoma falli (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov , mfdigiro
Frequently Asked Questions About Dorcatoma falli
How big is Dorcatoma falli?
2.1–3.0 mm
Where is Dorcatoma falli found?
Range: e NA to MT, absent Deep South (NS-ON-MT to SC-MO)
When is Dorcatoma falli active?
Dorcatoma falli: seasonal activity - mid-May to early Aug in WI.