Microphotus octarthrus
This record describes Microphotus octarthrus (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
our smallest sp., easily recognized by its short elytra with infuscate tips, together with the truncate base of the pronotum. Det. B. Pfeiffer, 2016
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Lampyridae (Fireflies)
- Subfamily
- Lampyrinae
- Tribe
- Lampyrini
- Genus
- Microphotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ to w. TX, UT; north-central Mex.
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Sept
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Microphotus octarthrus Fall 1912
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Microphotus octarthrus. 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 Microphotus octarthrus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by Chuck Sexton
Frequently Asked Questions About Microphotus octarthrus
What is Microphotus octarthrus?
Microphotus octarthrus is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Microphotus octarthrus?
4.25-6.25 mm
How do you identify Microphotus octarthrus?
our smallest sp., easily recognized by its short elytra with infuscate tips, together with the truncate base of the pronotum. Det. B. Pfeiffer, 2016
Where is Microphotus octarthrus found?
Range: AZ to w. TX, UT; north-central Mex.
When is Microphotus octarthrus active?
Microphotus octarthrus: seasonal activity - Apr-Sept.