Epuraea planulata
This record describes Epuraea planulata (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Epuraea planulata (Epuraea planulata) is a species in the family Nitidulidae, commonly known as sap-feeding beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Epuraeinae, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Cucujoidea. This species belongs to the genus Epuraea. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 2.5-3.1 mm. Active during May-Jul.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Nitidulidae (Sap-feeding Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Epuraeinae
- Genus
- Epuraea
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
transcontinental (NS-AK to NC in the east and OR-NV-CO in the west)
Seasonal Activity
May-Jul ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epuraea planulata Erichson 1843
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epuraea planulata. 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 Epuraea planulata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Epuraea planulata
What is Epuraea planulata?
Epuraea planulata is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epuraea planulata?
2.5-3.1 mm
Where is Epuraea planulata found?
Range: transcontinental (NS-AK to NC in the east and OR-NV-CO in the west)
When is Epuraea planulata active?
Epuraea planulata: seasonal activity - May-Jul ( 4 ).