Floridelater americanus
This record describes Floridelater americanus (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The posteriorly bilobed scutellum is unique among Elateridae examined. This species was described by Horn as Coptostethus americanus . At the time, Horn seemed hesitant for this generic placement but felt it the best choice at the time. Johnson transferred this species to the genus Negastrius . Douglas performed phylogenetic analysis of the Elateridae, with special reference to Cardiophorinae, and demonstrated this species belongs in Cardiophorinae. Floridelater was formally published by Douglas in 2017 to accommodate this species .
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cardiophorinae
- Genus
- Floridelater
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often collected by sifting loose sand among dune vegetation.
Geographic Range
Gulf Coastal areas of se US
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Floridelater americanus. 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 Floridelater americanus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Floridelater americanus
What is Floridelater americanus?
Floridelater americanus is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Floridelater americanus?
The posteriorly bilobed scutellum is unique among Elateridae examined.
Where is Floridelater americanus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Often collected by sifting loose sand among dune vegetation. |
| Range | Gulf Coastal areas of se US |