Ernobius opicus
This record describes Ernobius opicus (species). Recorded family: Ptinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Very similar to E. granulatus, but 5th antennal segment longer than 4th and subequal to 3rd. Elytra less shining than head and pronotum. Genitalia illustrated by Ford Noted as a rare species. Briefly discussed by Ford.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Ptinidae (Death-watch and Spider Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Ernobiinae
- Tribe
- Ernobiini
- Genus
- Ernobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Likely pines, probably their cones or bark.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ernobius opicus. 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 Ernobius opicus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Ernobius opicus
What is Ernobius opicus?
Ernobius opicus is a species in the family Ptinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Ernobius opicus?
Very similar to E. granulatus, but 5th antennal segment longer than 4th and subequal to 3rd. Elytra less shining than head and pronotum. Genitalia illustrated by Ford
What does Ernobius opicus eat?
The diet of the Ernobius opicus includes Likely pines, probably their cones or bark..