Parochodaeus pectoralis
This record describes Parochodaeus pectoralis (species). Recorded family: Ochodaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The first segment of the hind tarsus is thickened and curved PLUS the mentum is strongly produced downward and thus visible in lateral view of the head. Can be confused with P. ritcheri from the Big Bend region of TX but has distinct labrum ( P. ritcheri with central tooth on apex, P. pectoralis with apex of labrum concave.)
Wikipedia reference for Parochodaeus pectoralis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parochodaeus_pectoralis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Ochodaeidae (Sand-loving Scarab Beetles)
- Genus
- Parochodaeus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
northern Mexico; southwestern US north to NE.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Parochodaeus pectoralis. 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 Parochodaeus pectoralis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by nebbeetle
Frequently Asked Questions About Parochodaeus pectoralis
What is Parochodaeus pectoralis?
Parochodaeus pectoralis is a species in the family Ochodaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Parochodaeus pectoralis?
The first segment of the hind tarsus is thickened and curved PLUS the mentum is strongly produced downward and thus visible in lateral view of the head. Can be confused with P. ritcheri from the Big Bend region of TX but has distinct labrum ( P. ritcheri with central tooth on apex, P. pectoralis with apex of labrum concave.)
Where is Parochodaeus pectoralis found?
Range: northern Mexico; southwestern US north to NE.