Listrochelus tarsalis
This record describes Listrochelus tarsalis (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Though resembling several small and densely pruinose species, L. tarsalis is the only one with a thorax that is apparently (view vertically) impunctate and glabrous, except at the sides. Type locality: Santa Rita Mts., Arizona.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melolonthinae
- Tribe
- Rhizotrogini
- Genus
- Listrochelus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ-NM
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Listrochelus tarsalis Schaeffer, 1908
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Listrochelus tarsalis. 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 Listrochelus tarsalis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , nebbeetle
Frequently Asked Questions About Listrochelus tarsalis
What is Listrochelus tarsalis?
Listrochelus tarsalis is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Listrochelus tarsalis?
12.5-14 mm
How do you identify Listrochelus tarsalis?
Though resembling several small and densely pruinose species, L. tarsalis is the only one with a thorax that is apparently (view vertically) impunctate and glabrous, except at the sides.
Where is Listrochelus tarsalis found?
Range: AZ-NM