Hylis californicus
This record describes Hylis californicus (species). Recorded family: Eucnemidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Species differs from other Nearctic species by the form of their antennae and larger size. Males have an elongated terminal antennal segment. Terminal four antennomeres are slightly elongate in female specimens. The Eucnemid is closely related to an extinct, undescribed species in Eocene Baltic Amber.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Eucnemidae (False Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melasinae
- Tribe
- Epiphanini
- Genus
- Hylis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Largely found in high elevation forested areas.
Geographic Range
California
Seasonal Activity
Mid June through the end of July.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Unknown.
Life History
Unknown.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Species named for the state in which is was collected and described.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hylis californicus. 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 Hylis californicus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Robert Otto
Frequently Asked Questions About Hylis californicus
What is Hylis californicus?
Hylis californicus is a species in the family Eucnemidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hylis californicus?
5.8-6.5 mm long.
How do you identify Hylis californicus?
Species differs from other Nearctic species by the form of their antennae and larger size. Males have an elongated terminal antennal segment. Terminal four antennomeres are slightly elongate in female specimens.
Where is Hylis californicus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Largely found in high elevation forested areas. |
| Range | California |
What does Hylis californicus eat?
The diet of the Hylis californicus includes Unknown..
When is Hylis californicus active?
Hylis californicus: seasonal activity - Mid June through the end of July..
What is the life cycle of a Hylis californicus?
Unknown.