Epuraea rufa
This record describes Epuraea rufa (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Epuraea rufa (Epuraea rufa) 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: 2.9-3.5 mm. It is found in beneath leaves, at sap, in fungi. Active during mostly Apr-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
Habitat
beneath leaves, at sap, in fungi
Geographic Range
ne. NA, except the deep south (NB-ON-MN to GA-OK) - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly Apr-Jul ( 5 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Epuraea rufa (Say 1825)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Epuraea rufa. 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 rufa (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Will Chatfield-Taylor; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , onegunah
Frequently Asked Questions About Epuraea rufa
What is Epuraea rufa?
Epuraea rufa is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Epuraea rufa?
2.9-3.5 mm
Where is Epuraea rufa found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | beneath leaves, at sap, in fungi |
| Range | ne. NA, except the deep south (NB-ON-MN to GA-OK) - Map |
When is Epuraea rufa active?
Epuraea rufa: seasonal activity - mostly Apr-Jul ( 5 ).