Geopsammodius unsidensis
This record describes Geopsammodius unsidensis (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
PARATYPE
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aphodiinae
- Tribe
- Psammodiini
- Genus
- Geopsammodius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
sifted from surface sand & debris
Geographic Range
e. to s. TX
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Geopsammodius unsidensis Skelley 2006
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Geopsammodius unsidensis. 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 Geopsammodius unsidensis (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Maury Heiman , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Geopsammodius unsidensis
How big is Geopsammodius unsidensis?
2.4-2.7 mm
How do you identify Geopsammodius unsidensis?
PARATYPE
Where is Geopsammodius unsidensis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | sifted from surface sand & debris |
| Range | e. to s. TX |