Parochodaeus ritcheri
This record describes Parochodaeus ritcheri (species). Recorded family: Ochodaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar to P. pectoralis with thickened and curved first metatarsomere and downward produced mentum,but labrum has a small central projection on apex instead of being emarginate; restricted to Big Bend area in USA
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
Big Bend region of Texas and south into Mexico
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Parochodaeus ritcheri. 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 Parochodaeus ritcheri
What is Parochodaeus ritcheri?
Parochodaeus ritcheri is a species in the family Ochodaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Parochodaeus ritcheri?
Similar to P. pectoralis with thickened and curved first metatarsomere and downward produced mentum,but labrum has a small central projection on apex instead of being emarginate; restricted to Big Bend area in USA
Where is Parochodaeus ritcheri found?
Range: Big Bend region of Texas and south into Mexico