Ormiscus irroratus
This record describes Ormiscus irroratus (species). Recorded family: Anthribidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The amount of variation in this species' pattern is unclear at the present time. The specimens under this name in the USNM general collection could include multiple species. Only those few that closely match the syntypes of Schaeffer are cited in this report. ( 3 ) Syntype Locality: Esperanza Ranch, Brownsville, Cameron Co., Texas Texas considers this a SGCN ( 7 )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Anthribidae (Fungus Weevils)
- Subfamily
- Anthribinae
- Tribe
- Zygaenodini
- Genus
- Ormiscus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
southmost TX (Hidalgo & Cameron Cos.) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) ( 6 )
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Aug ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: irrora (L). "sprinkle with dew"
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ormiscus irroratus. 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 Ormiscus irroratus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Ormiscus irroratus
What is Ormiscus irroratus?
Ormiscus irroratus is a species in the family Anthribidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ormiscus irroratus?
2.5-3 mm
How do you identify Ormiscus irroratus?
The amount of variation in this species' pattern is unclear at the present time. The specimens under this name in the USNM general collection could include multiple species. Only those few that closely match the syntypes of Schaeffer are cited in this report. ( 3 )
Where is Ormiscus irroratus found?
Range: southmost TX (Hidalgo & Cameron Cos.) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) ( 6 )
When is Ormiscus irroratus active?
Ormiscus irroratus: seasonal activity - Apr-Aug ( 3 ).