Harpalus paratus
This record describes Harpalus paratus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. P. W. Messer, 2013 (based on microscopic examination of this specimen) Distinguished from juxatapostional species in Ball & Anderson (1962) by combination of: The latter diagnostic character I find especially useful. Other large Pseudoophonus have hind tarsi with obvious dorsal pubescence or at least show numerous punctulae under high power. (per Peter W. Messer, 26 January, 2013)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Harpalini
- Genus
- Harpalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
primarily a prairie species
Geographic Range
AZ-TX-OH-ID (+PA?) / AB-SK / Mex.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Harpalus paratus Casey, 1924
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Harpalus paratus. 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 Harpalus paratus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Harpalus paratus
What is Harpalus paratus?
Harpalus paratus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Harpalus paratus?
ABL ~ 16 mm
How do you identify Harpalus paratus?
Det. P. W. Messer, 2013 (based on microscopic examination of this specimen) Distinguished from juxatapostional species in Ball & Anderson (1962) by combination of: The latter diagnostic character I find especially useful. Other large Pseudoophonus have hind tarsi with obvious dorsal pubescence or at least show numerous punctulae under high power. (per Peter W. Messer, 26 January, 2013)
Where is Harpalus paratus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | primarily a prairie species |
| Range | AZ-TX-OH-ID (+PA?) / AB-SK / Mex. |