Black Burying Beetle
Nicrophorus nigrita
This record describes Nicrophorus nigrita (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
Habitat
coastal forests
Geographic Range
Pacific US states & so. BC
Seasonal Activity
in CA, adults active primarily in the cooler/wetter months (Sep-May)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Nicrophorus nigrita Mannerheim 1843
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nicrophorus nigrita. 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 Black Burying Beetle (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by cotinis , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Burying Beetle
How big is Black Burying Beetle?
13-18 mm
Where is Black Burying Beetle found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | coastal forests |
| Range | Pacific US states & so. BC |
When is Black Burying Beetle active?
Black Burying Beetle: seasonal activity - in CA, adults active primarily in the cooler/wetter months (Sep-May).