Paratenetus fuscus
This record describes Paratenetus fuscus (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
close to P. gibbipennis but elytral setae more erect & numerous and metaventrite slightly longer males rather common (~40% of specimens)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Lagriinae
- Tribe
- Prateini
- Genus
- Paratenetus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
much of NA except w. of the Continental Divide and se. US (QC-MD to so.NT-BC-n.NM) - Map
Seasonal Activity
year round (ii-xi)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Paratenetus fuscus LeConte 1850
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Paratenetus fuscus. 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 Paratenetus fuscus
What is Paratenetus fuscus?
Paratenetus fuscus is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Paratenetus fuscus?
close to P. gibbipennis but elytral setae more erect & numerous and metaventrite slightly longer
Where is Paratenetus fuscus found?
Habitat: much of NA except w. of the Continental Divide and se. US (QC-MD to so.NT-BC-n.NM) - Map
When is Paratenetus fuscus active?
Paratenetus fuscus: seasonal activity - year round (ii-xi).