Mordellaria serval
This record describes Mordellaria serval (species). Recorded family: Mordellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
differs from M. borealis in much narrower palpi and in hairy eyes Det. Brad Barnd, 2022
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Mordellidae (Tumbling Flower Beetles)
- Tribe
- Mordellini
- Genus
- Mordellaria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA (NS-MB to VA-MO-s.TX) / Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
1.V-3.VIII
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Mordellaria serval (Say 1835)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mordellaria serval. 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 Mordellaria serval (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Moyer; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Mordellaria serval
What is Mordellaria serval?
Mordellaria serval is a species in the family Mordellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mordellaria serval?
4.5-5 mm
How do you identify Mordellaria serval?
differs from M. borealis in much narrower palpi and in hairy eyes Det. Brad Barnd, 2022
Where is Mordellaria serval found?
Range: e. NA (NS-MB to VA-MO-s.TX) / Mex. - Map
When is Mordellaria serval active?
Mordellaria serval: seasonal activity - 1.V-3.VIII.