Palorus subdepressus
This record describes Palorus subdepressus (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small reddish brown beetle only 2.5 to 3.0 mm in length. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Found in stored products such as grain, but also attracted to light. May be recorded in almost any month from indoor grain stores etc. A scattering of records from across England and Wales, but not frequently recorded. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Tenebrioninae
- Tribe
- Triboliini
- Genus
- Palorus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in stored products such as grain, but also attracted to light.
Seasonal Activity
May be recorded in almost any month from indoor grain stores etc.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A scattering of records from across England and Wales, but not frequently recorded.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Palorus subdepressus. 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 Palorus subdepressus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Palorus subdepressus
What is Palorus subdepressus?
Palorus subdepressus is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Palorus subdepressus found?
Habitat: Found in stored products such as grain, but also attracted to light.
When is Palorus subdepressus active?
Palorus subdepressus: seasonal activity - May be recorded in almost any month from indoor grain stores etc..