Lathropus vernalis
This record describes Lathropus vernalis (species). Recorded family: Laemophloeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
only US species with that particular shape of pronotum. (Michael C. Thomas, 28 December, 2009)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Laemophloeidae (Lined Flat Bark Beetles)
- Genus
- Lathropus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e US (TX-FL-ME-SD) / Ont.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lathropus vernalis LeConte 1869
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lathropus vernalis. 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 Lathropus vernalis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Lathropus vernalis
What is Lathropus vernalis?
Lathropus vernalis is a species in the family Laemophloeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Lathropus vernalis?
1.3 mm (BG data)
How do you identify Lathropus vernalis?
only US species with that particular shape of pronotum. (Michael C. Thomas, 28 December, 2009)
Where is Lathropus vernalis found?
Range: e US (TX-FL-ME-SD) / Ont.