Nicrophorus mexicanus
This record describes Nicrophorus mexicanus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Silphinae
- Tribe
- Silphini
- Genus
- Nicrophorus (Sexton Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
NE through southern Rocky Mountain states to El Salvador
Seasonal Activity
May-Oct in the US
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Nicrophorus mexicanus Matthews 1888
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nicrophorus mexicanus. 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 Nicrophorus mexicanus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Guy A. Hanley; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Nicrophorus mexicanus
How big is Nicrophorus mexicanus?
14.0-20.8 mm
Where is Nicrophorus mexicanus found?
Range: NE through southern Rocky Mountain states to El Salvador
When is Nicrophorus mexicanus active?
Nicrophorus mexicanus: seasonal activity - May-Oct in the US.