Laemophloeus megacephalus
This record describes Laemophloeus megacephalus (species). Recorded family: Laemophloeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
As may be expected, it exhibits considerable colorvariation throughout its tremendous range, but surprisingly little structural variation. Neotropical specimens tend to be pale, with infuscate elytral sutural and basal margins, much as in L. suturalis . Southern Florida specimens follow that same pattern, but progressing northwards, specimens become darker and at their most extreme closely resemble the color pattern of L. fasciatus . Det. Michael C. Thomas, 2010 - illustration
Wikipedia reference for Laemophloeus megacephalus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laemophloeus_megacephalus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Laemophloeidae (Lined Flat Bark Beetles)
- Genus
- Laemophloeus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Under bark
Geographic Range
DE‒s.FL to IN‒e.TX, AZ to Bolivia; W.Indies - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Examination of gut contents suggests it's fungivorous
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Laemophloeus megacephalus Grouvelle 1876
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Laemophloeus megacephalus. 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 Laemophloeus megacephalus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Boris Bueche , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Laemophloeus megacephalus
What is Laemophloeus megacephalus?
Laemophloeus megacephalus is a species in the family Laemophloeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Laemophloeus megacephalus?
2.3‒3.4 mm
How do you identify Laemophloeus megacephalus?
As may be expected, it exhibits considerable colorvariation throughout its tremendous range, but surprisingly little structural variation. Neotropical specimens tend to be pale, with infuscate elytral sutural and basal margins, much as in L. suturalis . Southern Florida specimens follow that same pattern, but progressing northwards, specimens become darker and at their most extreme closely resemble the color pattern of L. fasciatus . Det. Michael C. Thomas, 2010 - illustration
Where is Laemophloeus megacephalus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Under bark |
| Range | DE‒s.FL to IN‒e.TX, AZ to Bolivia; W.Indies - Map |
What is the life cycle of a Laemophloeus megacephalus?
Examination of gut contents suggests it's fungivorous