Monocrepidius pictus
This record describes Monocrepidius pictus (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
similar to the native C. bellus but has a small tubercle at pronotal base and pronotal maculae broken (producing a smily face pattern)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Elateridae (Click Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Agrypninae
- Tribe
- Oophorini
- Genus
- Monocrepidius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
widespread Neotropical species introduced in FL
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Monocrepidius pictus. 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 Monocrepidius pictus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Blaine Mathison; Additional contributions by cotinis , Bbarnd , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Monocrepidius pictus
What is Monocrepidius pictus?
Monocrepidius pictus is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Monocrepidius pictus?
similar to the native C. bellus but has a small tubercle at pronotal base and pronotal maculae broken (producing a smily face pattern)
Where is Monocrepidius pictus found?
Range: widespread Neotropical species introduced in FL