Mordellistena splendens
This record describes Mordellistena splendens (species). Recorded family: Mordellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Covered in golden setae. Ridges 2-3-2, sometimes 3-4-2. All antenomeres subequal in length. Antenomeres 3 and 4 narrow. Antennae short, only reaching middle of pronotum.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Mordellidae (Tumbling Flower Beetles)
- Tribe
- Mordellistenini
- Genus
- Mordellistena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Eastern North America
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Mordellistena splendens Smith 1882
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mordellistena splendens. 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 Mordellistena splendens (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Russell Rogers; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Mordellistena splendens
What is Mordellistena splendens?
Mordellistena splendens is a species in the family Mordellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mordellistena splendens?
4‒5 mm to tip of elytra, 5.25‒6.5 mm to tip of anal style
How do you identify Mordellistena splendens?
Covered in golden setae. Ridges 2-3-2, sometimes 3-4-2. All antenomeres subequal in length. Antenomeres 3 and 4 narrow. Antennae short, only reaching middle of pronotum.
Where is Mordellistena splendens found?
Range: Eastern North America