Nicrophorus interruptus
This record describes Nicrophorus interruptus (species). Recorded family: Silphidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Up to 20mm. Robust and shiny black with two broken orange bands across the abdomen. Antennae are black with orange clubs. All the abdominal segments are fringed with yellow hairs. The hind tibia are straight . Nicrophorus vespillo is similar but with distinctly curved hind tibia, plus orange hairs on the hind margin of the pronotum. with a good image showing the key ID features. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Silphidae
- Genus
- Nicrophorus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
At carrion in any habitat.
Seasonal Activity
May to October. It is mainly nocturnal.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the south but uncommon.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nicrophorus interruptus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nicrophorus interruptus
What is Nicrophorus interruptus?
Nicrophorus interruptus is a species in the family Silphidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Nicrophorus interruptus found?
Habitat: At carrion in any habitat.
When is Nicrophorus interruptus active?
Nicrophorus interruptus: seasonal activity - May to October. It is mainly nocturnal..