Oxacis nitens
This record describes Oxacis nitens (species). Recorded family: Oedemeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Color pale testaceous with elytra brown, with narrow lateral margin pale, sutural area with pale central area, narrow at base and apex, varying to entirely brown (emphasis added). Type Locality: Arizona, Grand Canyon, mile 72, June 7, 1953 (G. D. Butler)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Oedemeridae (False Blister Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Oedemerinae
- Tribe
- Asclerini
- Genus
- Oxacis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
low lands, canyons, and desert regions.
Geographic Range
s.CA-AZ - Map
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Jun (BG data) ( 3 )
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Biology: unk.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Oxacis nitens Arnett, 1956
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Oxacis nitens. 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 Oxacis nitens (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxacis nitens
What is Oxacis nitens?
Oxacis nitens is a species in the family Oedemeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Oxacis nitens?
Length: 8-12 mm
How do you identify Oxacis nitens?
Color pale testaceous with elytra brown, with narrow lateral margin pale, sutural area with pale central area, narrow at base and apex, varying to entirely brown (emphasis added).
Where is Oxacis nitens found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | low lands, canyons, and desert regions. |
| Range | s.CA-AZ - Map |
When is Oxacis nitens active?
Oxacis nitens: seasonal activity - Apr-Jun (BG data) ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Oxacis nitens?
Biology: unk.