Ganascus ptinoides
This record describes Ganascus ptinoides (species). Recorded family: Aderidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Ganascus ptinoides (Ganascus ptinoides) is a species in the family Aderidae, commonly known as ant-like leaf beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the tribe Phytobaenini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Tenebrionoidea. This species belongs to the genus Ganascus. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: ~1.6 mm. It is found in along streams , at lights, in dead tree trunk.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Aderidae (Ant-like Leaf Beetles)
- Tribe
- Phytobaenini
- Genus
- Ganascus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
along streams ( 4 ) , at lights, in dead tree trunk ( 8 )
Geographic Range
se.US (FL, NC, e.OK‒e.TX) - Map , uncommon, most records from FL
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ptinus -like
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ganascus ptinoides. 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 Ganascus ptinoides (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Gruber; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ganascus ptinoides
What is Ganascus ptinoides?
Ganascus ptinoides is a species in the family Aderidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ganascus ptinoides?
~1.6 mm
Where is Ganascus ptinoides found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | along streams ( 4 ) , at lights, in dead tree trunk ( 8 ) |
| Range | se.US (FL, NC, e.OK‒e.TX) - Map , uncommon, most records from FL |