Lucidota punctata
This record describes Lucidota punctata (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar to L. atra , but much smaller, markings on pronotum somewhat different; elytra lack costae (raised ridges) and have a more coarse granulate to punctate surface pink vittae of pronotum usually tiny, often subtriangular uncommon, local
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Lampyridae (Fireflies)
- Subfamily
- Lampyrinae
- Tribe
- Lucidotini
- Genus
- Lucidota
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
woodlands near streams ( 3 )
Geographic Range
e. US (NY-NC-IN) & ON , rare in AL
Seasonal Activity
in NC, May-Jun at lower elevations, Jun-Jul in the mountains ( 6 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lucidota punctata LeConte 1851
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lucidota punctata. 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 Lucidota punctata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Lucidota punctata
What is Lucidota punctata?
Lucidota punctata is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Lucidota punctata?
5.5-6 mm
How do you identify Lucidota punctata?
Similar to L. atra , but much smaller, markings on pronotum somewhat different; elytra lack costae (raised ridges) and have a more coarse granulate to punctate surface pink vittae of pronotum usually tiny, often subtriangular
Where is Lucidota punctata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | woodlands near streams ( 3 ) |
| Range | e. US (NY-NC-IN) & ON , rare in AL |
When is Lucidota punctata active?
Lucidota punctata: seasonal activity - in NC, May-Jun at lower elevations, Jun-Jul in the mountains ( 6 ).