Hister coenosus
This record describes Hister coenosus (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
significant as a predator of the Horn Fly ( Haematobia irritans )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Histerinae
- Tribe
- Histerini
- Genus
- Hister
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
in our area, this is the most common Hister species in cow dung; also on carrion
Geographic Range
US (north to NY-IL-MT) to Ecuador
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hister coenosus Erichson 1834
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hister coenosus. 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 Hister coenosus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Gruber; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Hister coenosus
What is Hister coenosus?
Hister coenosus is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hister coenosus?
4.3-5.4 mm
Where is Hister coenosus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | in our area, this is the most common Hister species in cow dung; also on carrion |
| Range | US (north to NY-IL-MT) to Ecuador |