Toothed Round Sand Beetle
Omophron dentatum
This record describes Omophron dentatum (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum with an irregular transverse band, pale area on front weakly M-shaped dorsal habitus photos: Erwin | Brett
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Omophroninae
- Tribe
- Omophronini
- Genus
- Omophron (Round Sand Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
California & Baja California
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Omophron dentatum LeConte 1852
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Omophron dentatum. 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 Toothed Round Sand Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Chris Wirth; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Chuck Entz , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Toothed Round Sand Beetle
What is Toothed Round Sand Beetle?
Toothed Round Sand Beetle (Omophron dentatum) is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Toothed Round Sand Beetle?
5-7 mm
How do you identify Toothed Round Sand Beetle?
Pronotum with an irregular transverse band, pale area on front weakly M-shaped dorsal habitus photos: Erwin | Brett
Where is Toothed Round Sand Beetle found?
Range: California & Baja California