Gymnusa grandiceps
This record describes Gymnusa grandiceps (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aleocharinae
- Tribe
- Gymnusini
- Genus
- Gymnusa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in wet forested habitats, including black spruce bogs, alder swamps, and eastern white cedar swamps. Adults were found in moist leaf litter and moss in these habitats, specifically from margins of vernal ponds, in seepage areas, and near small brooks. ( 3 )
Geographic Range
Northeastern North America west to Manitoba & Illinois. State/Province Records: CAN: MB, LB, NB, NF, NS, ON, QC USA: IL, MA, MD, ME, MI, NH, NY, RI
Seasonal Activity
April to June in New Brunswick. ( 3 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Gymnusa grandiceps. 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 Gymnusa grandiceps (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd