Gondwanocrypticus platensis
This record describes Gondwanocrypticus platensis (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Antennomeres 1 & 2 reddish, 2 is much shorter and paler compared to 3, which is two times as long as 2 and darkly pigmented in contrast, pronotum noticeably more shining than the relatively dull elytra in G. obsoletus (Say), Antennomeres 2 & 3 similar in color and size, dorsum uniformly dull, somewhat polished earliest record in our area: AL 1929 ; more commonly collected than the indigenous G. obsoletus
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
often associated with debris around ant nests (primarily of non-native ant species)
Geographic Range
native to S. America, adventive in our area: se US (DE-FL to WV-TX) & CA - map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Gondwanocrypticus platensis (Fairmaire 1884)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Gondwanocrypticus platensis. 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 platensis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Arturo Santos
Frequently Asked Questions About Gondwanocrypticus platensis
What is Gondwanocrypticus platensis?
Gondwanocrypticus platensis is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Gondwanocrypticus platensis?
3.9-4.6 mm
How do you identify Gondwanocrypticus platensis?
Antennomeres 1 & 2 reddish, 2 is much shorter and paler compared to 3, which is two times as long as 2 and darkly pigmented in contrast, pronotum noticeably more shining than the relatively dull elytra in G. obsoletus (Say), Antennomeres 2 & 3 similar in color and size, dorsum uniformly dull, somewhat polished
Where is Gondwanocrypticus platensis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | often associated with debris around ant nests (primarily of non-native ant species) |
| Range | native to S. America, adventive in our area: se US (DE-FL to WV-TX) & CA - map |