Palaminus larvalis
This record describes Palaminus larvalis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Strongly narrowed prothorax, small size (~ 3.1 mm), head & pronotum coarsely but not densely punctate.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Paederinae
- Tribe
- Pinophilini
- Genus
- Palaminus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Eastern, but full range unknown. LeConte reports it from FL, NY (type locality), and TN. Downie & Arnett add IN.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Palaminus larvalis. 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 Palaminus larvalis
What is Palaminus larvalis?
Palaminus larvalis is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Palaminus larvalis?
Strongly narrowed prothorax, small size (~ 3.1 mm), head & pronotum coarsely but not densely punctate.
Where is Palaminus larvalis found?
Range: Eastern, but full range unknown. LeConte reports it from FL, NY (type locality), and TN. Downie & Arnett add IN.