Monocrepidius similis
This record describes Monocrepidius similis (species). Recorded family: Elateridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Original name Monocrepidius texanus Schaeffer 1909 turned out to be a junior homonym of M. texanus Candèze. Schaeffer corrected his junior homonym later that year and proposed the replacement name Monocrepidius similis . However, Monocrepidius similis might have also been preoccupied (Fleutiaux 1902).
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
TX - Type Locality: Brownsville, Cameron Co., Texas
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Monocrepidius similis. 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 similis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by cotinis , edriley
Frequently Asked Questions About Monocrepidius similis
What is Monocrepidius similis?
Monocrepidius similis is a species in the family Elateridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Monocrepidius similis?
3.25 mm (Type)
Where is Monocrepidius similis found?
Range: TX - Type Locality: Brownsville, Cameron Co., Texas