Leptoceletes dehiscens
This record describes Leptoceletes dehiscens (species). Recorded family: Lycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. M. A. Ivie, 2015 female is unk. Type Locality: Chisos Mountains of west Texas, male coll'ed July 17, 1940 by D.J. and J.N. Knull, spmn in the OSUC.
Identification notes
Det. M. A. Ivie, 2015 female is unk.
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
Brewster Co., west TX
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: dehiscens (L). 'split' (not sure if this is a morphological feature or a taxonomic comment)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Leptoceletes dehiscens. 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 dehiscens (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Leptoceletes dehiscens
What is Leptoceletes dehiscens?
Leptoceletes dehiscens is a species in the family Lycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Leptoceletes dehiscens?
5 mm
How do you identify Leptoceletes dehiscens?
Det. M. A. Ivie, 2015 female is unk.
Where is Leptoceletes dehiscens found?
Range: Brewster Co., west TX