Pechalius dentiger
This record describes Pechalius dentiger (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Key to species of Pechalius
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Pimeliinae
- Tribe
- Epitragini
- Genus
- Pechalius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ & Sonora, Mexico ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pechalius dentiger (Horn 1870)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pechalius dentiger. 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 Pechalius dentiger (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov , Edward Ruden
Frequently Asked Questions About Pechalius dentiger
How big is Pechalius dentiger?
11.7-12.2 mm
How do you identify Pechalius dentiger?
Key to species of Pechalius
Where is Pechalius dentiger found?
Range: AZ & Sonora, Mexico ( 3 )