Hemicoelus pusillus
This record describes Hemicoelus pusillus (species). Recorded family: Ptinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Small size; second abdominal ventrite longer than first; first abdominal suture broadly arcing posteriorly.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Ptinidae (Death-watch and Spider Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Anobiinae
- Tribe
- Anobiini
- Genus
- Hemicoelus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Northeastern North America. WI-ON-NY south to TN-NC
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hemicoelus pusillus. 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 Hemicoelus pusillus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Hemicoelus pusillus
What is Hemicoelus pusillus?
Hemicoelus pusillus is a species in the family Ptinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hemicoelus pusillus?
2.1 to 2.8 mm
How do you identify Hemicoelus pusillus?
Small size; second abdominal ventrite longer than first; first abdominal suture broadly arcing posteriorly.
Where is Hemicoelus pusillus found?
Range: Northeastern North America. WI-ON-NY south to TN-NC