Niptinus ovipennis
This record describes Niptinus ovipennis (species). Recorded family: Ptinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
note oval shoulders, though most spmns not quite as rounded as this individual Det. E. G. Riley, 2010 Type locality: Described from five examples collected by Mr. Soltau at San Antonio, Texas, in June, and now in the National Museum collection.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Ptinidae (Death-watch and Spider Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Ptininae
- Tribe
- Ptinini
- Genus
- Niptinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
c. to s. TX - Map , most records Austin to San Antonio
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Niptinus ovipennis Fall 1905
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Niptinus ovipennis. 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 Niptinus ovipennis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Niptinus ovipennis
What is Niptinus ovipennis?
Niptinus ovipennis is a species in the family Ptinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Niptinus ovipennis?
2.2-2.9 mm
How do you identify Niptinus ovipennis?
note oval shoulders, though most spmns not quite as rounded as this individual Det. E. G. Riley, 2010
Where is Niptinus ovipennis found?
Range: c. to s. TX - Map , most records Austin to San Antonio