Paratachys potomaca
This record describes Paratachys potomaca (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Markedly reduced membranous wings, also characteristic are smaller, less convex eyes and the elytra shaped more oviform with more narrowed shoulders compared to very similar P. pumilus. (Peter Messer's comment)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Trechinae
- Tribe
- Tachyini
- Genus
- Paratachys
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
MA‒NC‒OH
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Paratachys potomaca. 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 Paratachys potomaca
What is Paratachys potomaca?
Paratachys potomaca is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Paratachys potomaca?
Markedly reduced membranous wings, also characteristic are smaller, less convex eyes and the elytra shaped more oviform with more narrowed shoulders compared to very similar P. pumilus. (Peter Messer's comment)
Where is Paratachys potomaca found?
Range: MA‒NC‒OH