Melanophthalma inermis
This record describes Melanophthalma inermis (species). Recorded family: Latridiidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
aedeagus not bilaterally symmetrical in ventral view
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Latridiidae (Minute Brown Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Corticariinae
- Genus
- Melanophthalma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
fields, heaths, sphagnum bogs, gardens, seashores, sand dunes, wet meadows, beside rivers/streams/ponds; occasionally, mixed or coniferous forests, flour mills, decomposing grain , decaying wood
Geographic Range
Atlantic Canada, US
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Melanophthalma inermis. 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 Melanophthalma inermis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Charlene Wood; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanophthalma inermis
What is Melanophthalma inermis?
Melanophthalma inermis is a species in the family Latridiidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Melanophthalma inermis?
1.4-1.8 mm
How do you identify Melanophthalma inermis?
aedeagus not bilaterally symmetrical in ventral view
Where is Melanophthalma inermis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | fields, heaths, sphagnum bogs, gardens, seashores, sand dunes, wet meadows, beside rivers/streams/ponds; occasionally, mixed or coniferous forests, flour mills, decomposing grain , decaying wood |
| Range | Atlantic Canada, US |