Megapenthes longicornis
This record describes Megapenthes longicornis (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Type Locality: Huachuca Mtns, Arizona (Schaeffer 1916)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Elaterinae
- Genus
- Megapenthes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ (BG data), A fairly common species (Schaeffer 1916)
Seasonal Activity
July (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Megapenthes longicornis Schaeffer 1916
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Megapenthes longicornis. 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 Megapenthes longicornis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Megapenthes longicornis
What is Megapenthes longicornis?
Megapenthes longicornis is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Megapenthes longicornis?
8.75 mm (Schaeffer 1916)
Where is Megapenthes longicornis found?
Range: AZ (BG data), A fairly common species (Schaeffer 1916)
When is Megapenthes longicornis active?
Megapenthes longicornis: seasonal activity - July (BG data).