Lithocharis nigriceps
This record describes Lithocharis nigriceps (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Identification notes
genitalia ▪ adult habitus
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Paederinae
- Tribe
- Lathrobiini
- Genus
- Lithocharis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
of Asian origin , now cosmopolitan
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lithocharis nigriceps Kraatz 1859
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lithocharis nigriceps. 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 Lithocharis nigriceps (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by mfdigiro
Frequently Asked Questions About Lithocharis nigriceps
How big is Lithocharis nigriceps?
3.5‒4 mm
How do you identify Lithocharis nigriceps?
genitalia ▪ adult habitus
Where is Lithocharis nigriceps found?
Range: of Asian origin , now cosmopolitan
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