Mordellina washingtonensis
This record describes Mordellina washingtonensis (species). Recorded family: Mordellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Protibia wide, lateral edge bowed (angulate in M. wimbledon ) in the distal third. Protasomere one bent.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Mordellidae (Tumbling Flower Beetles)
- Tribe
- Mordellistenini
- Genus
- Mordellina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
VA, NY (fide B. Steury), PA
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Mordellina washingtonesis Steury & Steiner 2020
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mordellina washingtonensis. 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 Mordellina washingtonensis (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Russell Rogers
Frequently Asked Questions About Mordellina washingtonensis
What is Mordellina washingtonensis?
Mordellina washingtonensis is a species in the family Mordellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mordellina washingtonensis?
2.8‒3.4 mm to tip of elytra
How do you identify Mordellina washingtonensis?
Protibia wide, lateral edge bowed (angulate in M. wimbledon ) in the distal third. Protasomere one bent.
Where is Mordellina washingtonensis found?
Range: VA, NY (fide B. Steury), PA