Naucles basalis
This record describes Naucles basalis (species). Recorded family: Scraptiidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
the elytra piceous with a spot at the shoulders and the sides towards the apex reddish or testaceous; the intermediate joints of the antennae infuscate. (Champion, 1891) Det. Andrew Johnston, 2023 Type Locality: Guatemala, Capetillo, San Geronimo
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Scraptiidae (False Flower Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Anaspidinae
- Tribe
- Pentariini
- Genus
- Naucles
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / e. Mex. to C. Amer. (Champion, 1891)(Ray, 1939)(BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Naucles basalis Champion, 1891
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Naucles basalis. 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 Naucles basalis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Andrew Johnston; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Naucles basalis
What is Naucles basalis?
Naucles basalis is a species in the family Scraptiidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Naucles basalis?
the elytra piceous with a spot at the shoulders and the sides towards the apex reddish or testaceous; the intermediate joints of the antennae infuscate. (Champion, 1891) Det. Andrew Johnston, 2023
Where is Naucles basalis found?
Range: southmost TX (Cameron Co.) / e. Mex. to C. Amer. (Champion, 1891)(Ray, 1939)(BG data)