Lathropinus obsidianus
This record describes Lathropinus obsidianus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Type Locality: El Paso, Texas, coll'ed by Mr. Dunn
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Paederinae
- Tribe
- Pinophilini
- Genus
- Lathropinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w. to e. to s. TX - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Unknown
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lathropinus obsidianus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lathropinus obsidianus
What is Lathropinus obsidianus?
Lathropinus obsidianus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Lathropinus obsidianus?
Length 13.7 mm (Type) (Casey 1910)
Where is Lathropinus obsidianus found?
Range: w. to e. to s. TX - Map
What is the life cycle of a Lathropinus obsidianus?
Unknown