Nicagus obscurus
This record describes Nicagus obscurus (species). Recorded family: Lucanidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
usually collected in flight, on sand, or under debris/driftwood. Females tend to be larger and darker.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Lucanidae (Stag Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aesalinae
- Genus
- Nicagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
sandy shores of lakes/streams
Geographic Range
e.NA (NB‒GA to ON‒MN‒IA)
Seasonal Activity
late spring and early summer
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Nicagus obscurus (LeConte 1848)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nicagus obscurus. 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 Nicagus obscurus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Nicagus obscurus
What is Nicagus obscurus?
Nicagus obscurus is a species in the family Lucanidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Nicagus obscurus?
7‒10 mm
Where is Nicagus obscurus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | sandy shores of lakes/streams |
| Range | e.NA (NB‒GA to ON‒MN‒IA) |
When is Nicagus obscurus active?
Nicagus obscurus: seasonal activity - late spring and early summer.