Ephelinus guttatus
This record describes Ephelinus guttatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Differs from notatus by the spot being larger and posterior to the middle of the elytra. Det. Brad Barnd, 2025
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Omaliinae
- Tribe
- Coryphiini
- Genus
- Ephelinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ephelinus guttatus. 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 Ephelinus guttatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Margaret Thayer; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ephelinus guttatus
What is Ephelinus guttatus?
Ephelinus guttatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Ephelinus guttatus?
Differs from notatus by the spot being larger and posterior to the middle of the elytra. Det. Brad Barnd, 2025
Where is Ephelinus guttatus found?
Range: e. US