Oploptera simplicicollis
This record describes Oploptera simplicicollis (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
thick ant. segments separate Oploptera from most Strongylium
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Stenochiinae
- Tribe
- Stenochiini
- Genus
- Oploptera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se.US (e.TX-s.FL-MD-AR) - Map (BG data)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Oploptera simplicicollis. 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 Oploptera simplicicollis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Oploptera simplicicollis
What is Oploptera simplicicollis?
Oploptera simplicicollis is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Oploptera simplicicollis?
9.4‒10.0 mm
How do you identify Oploptera simplicicollis?
thick ant. segments separate Oploptera from most Strongylium
Where is Oploptera simplicicollis found?
Range: se.US (e.TX-s.FL-MD-AR) - Map (BG data)