Margarinotus confusus
This record describes Margarinotus confusus (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Very similar to M. marginicollis. Male genitalia should be examined for accurate ID. Form of metepimeron also useful, but variable.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Histerinae
- Tribe
- Histerini
- Genus
- Margarinotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Has been collected in woodchuck burrows and at carrion.
Geographic Range
Ontario to Nova Scotia, south (at least) to Illinois & South Carolina.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Margarinotus confusus. 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 Margarinotus confusus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Gruber; Additional contributions by Bbarnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Margarinotus confusus
What is Margarinotus confusus?
Margarinotus confusus is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Margarinotus confusus?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Male | 3.3 to 4.0 mm |
| Female | 3.9 to 4.6 mm |
How do you identify Margarinotus confusus?
Very similar to M. marginicollis. Male genitalia should be examined for accurate ID. Form of metepimeron also useful, but variable.
Where is Margarinotus confusus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Has been collected in woodchuck burrows and at carrion. |
| Range | Ontario to Nova Scotia, south (at least) to Illinois & South Carolina. |