Leptoceletes basalis
This record describes Leptoceletes basalis (species). Recorded family: Lycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Antennae comb-like with branches arising from base of antennomere (male) or flat and serrate (female)
Wikipedia reference for Leptoceletes basalis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leptoceletes_basalis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Lycidae (Net-winged Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Lycinae
- Tribe
- Calopterini
- Genus
- Leptoceletes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
NS‒FL to SK‒TX
Seasonal Activity
Adults active late spring and summer, come to light
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Leptoceletes basalis (LeConte 1847)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Leptoceletes basalis. 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 Leptoceletes basalis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ted Kropiewnicki; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , ceiseman , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Leptoceletes basalis
What is Leptoceletes basalis?
Leptoceletes basalis is a species in the family Lycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Leptoceletes basalis?
6.5‒9.0 mm
How do you identify Leptoceletes basalis?
Antennae comb-like with branches arising from base of antennomere (male) or flat and serrate (female)
Where is Leptoceletes basalis found?
Range: NS‒FL to SK‒TX
When is Leptoceletes basalis active?
Leptoceletes basalis: seasonal activity - Adults active late spring and summer, come to light.
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