Parataenius simulator
This record describes Parataenius simulator (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Strongly wrinkled clypeus and basal half of pronotum with numerous coarse punctures
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aphodiinae
- Tribe
- Eupariini
- Genus
- Parataenius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se. US to West Indies and Argentina; introduced into Portugal, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Parataenius simulator (Harold 1868)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Parataenius simulator. 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 Parataenius simulator (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by cotinis , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Parataenius simulator
What is Parataenius simulator?
Parataenius simulator is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Parataenius simulator?
Strongly wrinkled clypeus and basal half of pronotum with numerous coarse punctures
Where is Parataenius simulator found?
Range: se. US to West Indies and Argentina; introduced into Portugal, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand