Melanophthalma taurica
This record describes Melanophthalma taurica (species). Recorded family: Latridiidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Requires genitalia dissection of male If using , this species will key to M. villosa .
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
Geographic Range
Native to Palearctic region Apparently adventive in the eastern US
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Melanophthalma taurica (Mannerheim, 1844)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Melanophthalma taurica. 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 taurica (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Marc DiGirolomo
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanophthalma taurica
What is Melanophthalma taurica?
Melanophthalma taurica is a species in the family Latridiidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Melanophthalma taurica?
1.36–1.46 mm
How do you identify Melanophthalma taurica?
Requires genitalia dissection of male If using , this species will key to M. villosa .
Where is Melanophthalma taurica found?
Range: Native to Palearctic region Apparently adventive in the eastern US