Onthophagus knausi
This record describes Onthophagus knausi (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Small size, elytra with 6 striæ between suture and humerus, striæ 2‒5 with two irregular rows of small tubercles locally abundant in se.NE
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scarabaeinae
- Tribe
- Onthophagini
- Genus
- Onthophagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
KS‒TX, IL
Seasonal Activity
Apr‒Sep in NE
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Onthophagus knausi Brown 1927
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Onthophagus knausi. 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 Onthophagus knausi
What is Onthophagus knausi?
Onthophagus knausi is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Onthophagus knausi?
3.5‒5 mm
How do you identify Onthophagus knausi?
Small size, elytra with 6 striæ between suture and humerus, striæ 2‒5 with two irregular rows of small tubercles
Where is Onthophagus knausi found?
Range: KS‒TX, IL
When is Onthophagus knausi active?
Onthophagus knausi: seasonal activity - Apr‒Sep in NE.