Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus
This record describes Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species and H. bilobatus are the only two North American Hemicrepidius with ecarinate pronotal hind angles. In late 2020, this species was removed from synonomy with H. bilobatus
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dendrometrinae
- Tribe
- Dendrometrini
- Genus
- Hemicrepidius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
eastern North America
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus. 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 Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison
Frequently Asked Questions About Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus
What is Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus?
Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus?
12.0-19.0 mm
How do you identify Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus?
This species and H. bilobatus are the only two North American Hemicrepidius with ecarinate pronotal hind angles.
Where is Hemicrepidius melanophthalmus found?
Range: eastern North America