Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus
This record describes Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Antennal segments 2 and 3 similar in color and size . The dorsal luster or sheen is uniformly dull, somewhat polished Det. M. A. Quinn, 2022
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Diaperinae
- Tribe
- Crypticini
- Genus
- Gondwanocrypticus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
leaf litter, beach drift, etc.
Geographic Range
wide coastal plains: DE-FL-TX - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ; native species
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus (Say 1823)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus. 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 Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Kojun Kanda; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn , v belov , Arturo Santos
Frequently Asked Questions About Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus
What is Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus?
Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus?
3.4-4 mm
How do you identify Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus?
Antennal segments 2 and 3 similar in color and size . The dorsal luster or sheen is uniformly dull, somewhat polished Det. M. A. Quinn, 2022
Where is Gondwanocrypticus obsoletus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | leaf litter, beach drift, etc. |
| Range | wide coastal plains: DE-FL-TX - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ; native species |