Paromalus seeversi
This record describes Paromalus seeversi (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Paromalus seeversi (Paromalus seeversi) is a species in the family Histeridae, commonly known as clown beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Dendrophilinae, tribe Paromalini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Histeroidea. This species belongs to the genus Paromalus. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 1.9-2.3 mm. It is found in moist organic debris in hollow trees.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dendrophilinae
- Tribe
- Paromalini
- Genus
- Paromalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
moist organic debris in hollow trees ( 4 )
Geographic Range
e. NA (QC-AL to SD-TX; scattered records)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Paromalus seeversi Wenzel 1936
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Paromalus seeversi. 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 Paromalus seeversi (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Gruber; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Paromalus seeversi
What is Paromalus seeversi?
Paromalus seeversi is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Paromalus seeversi?
1.9-2.3 mm
Where is Paromalus seeversi found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | moist organic debris in hollow trees ( 4 ) |
| Range | e. NA (QC-AL to SD-TX; scattered records) |