Melanotus communis
This record describes Melanotus communis (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Only reliable way to identify this species is examination of male genitalia. Similar congeners are nearly identical externally. See also info. under Melanotus communis -compex .
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Elaterinae
- Tribe
- Melanotini
- Genus
- Melanotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Common in rotting logs and under bark of various trees
Geographic Range
e US to SD-TX
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Melanotus communis (Gyllenhal 1817)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Melanotus communis. 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 Melanotus communis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanotus communis
What is Melanotus communis?
Melanotus communis is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Melanotus communis?
10.0-13.0 mm
How do you identify Melanotus communis?
Only reliable way to identify this species is examination of male genitalia. Similar congeners are nearly identical externally. See also info. under Melanotus communis -compex .
Where is Melanotus communis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Common in rotting logs and under bark of various trees |
| Range | e US to SD-TX |