Gnathium politum
This record describes Gnathium politum (species). Recorded family: Meloidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
superficially greatly resembles G. nitidum , but is at once distinct in the very long maxillary filaments and in having a head of normal length. differs from other Texan spp. in the smooth, shining elytra, which are nearly impunctate and not at all alutaceous. Type Locality: Brownwood, Brown Co., Texas
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Meloidae (Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Nemognathinae
- Tribe
- Nemognathini
- Genus
- Gnathium
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ to c. TX
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Gnathium politum Dillon, 1952
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Gnathium politum. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gnathium politum
What is Gnathium politum?
Gnathium politum is a species in the family Meloidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Gnathium politum?
superficially greatly resembles G. nitidum , but is at once distinct in the very long maxillary filaments and in having a head of normal length. differs from other Texan spp. in the smooth, shining elytra, which are nearly impunctate and not at all alutaceous.
Where is Gnathium politum found?
Range: AZ to c. TX