Limonius basilaris
This record describes Limonius basilaris (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Black on top except for yellow or brown hind angles of pronotum, legs and first antenomere Det. M. A. Quinn, 2012
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dendrometrinae
- Tribe
- Dendrometrini
- Genus
- Limonius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA (QC-ON-ID to FL-TX) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Limonius basilaris (Say 1823)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Limonius basilaris. 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 Limonius basilaris (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Vox Sciurorum , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Limonius basilaris
What is Limonius basilaris?
Limonius basilaris is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Limonius basilaris?
Black on top except for yellow or brown hind angles of pronotum, legs and first antenomere Det. M. A. Quinn, 2012
Where is Limonius basilaris found?
Range: e. NA (QC-ON-ID to FL-TX) - Map
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