Megarthrus pictus
This record describes Megarthrus pictus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
-the only nearctic species with bicolored elytra and angulate temples (=area immediately behind eye) -body and appendages predominantly yellow-brown (characteristic pattern shown below)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Proteininae
- Genus
- Megarthrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Pacific NW - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Megarthrus pictus Motschulsky 1845
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Megarthrus pictus. 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 Megarthrus pictus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Charlene Wood
Frequently Asked Questions About Megarthrus pictus
What is Megarthrus pictus?
Megarthrus pictus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Megarthrus pictus?
1.4 to 1.7 mm long
How do you identify Megarthrus pictus?
-the only nearctic species with bicolored elytra and angulate temples (=area immediately behind eye) -body and appendages predominantly yellow-brown (characteristic pattern shown below)
Where is Megarthrus pictus found?
Range: Pacific NW - Map