Microtonus sericans
This record describes Microtonus sericans (species). Recorded family: Melandryidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Melandryidae (False Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melandryinae
- Tribe
- Hypulini
- Genus
- Microtonus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
adults on vegetation, esp. on deciduous shrubs/trees
Geographic Range
e. NA (s.NS-n.FL to s.IN-c.TX) - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly May-July (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Microtonus sericans LeConte 1862
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Microtonus sericans. 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 Microtonus sericans (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joyce Gross; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Microtonus sericans
How big is Microtonus sericans?
3.8-4.5 mm
Where is Microtonus sericans found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | adults on vegetation, esp. on deciduous shrubs/trees |
| Range | e. NA (s.NS-n.FL to s.IN-c.TX) - Map |
When is Microtonus sericans active?
Microtonus sericans: seasonal activity - mostly May-July (BG data).