Phanaeus igneus
This record describes Phanaeus igneus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Color is highly variable: black, green or a green red combination.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scarabaeinae
- Tribe
- Phanaeini
- Genus
- Phanaeus (Rainbow Scarabs)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se US (LA-FL-VA) - Map , mostly FL to NC
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phanaeus igneus. 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 Phanaeus igneus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by Hannah Nendick-Mason , Phillip Harpootlian , Mike Quinn , Tyler Hedlund
Frequently Asked Questions About Phanaeus igneus
What is Phanaeus igneus?
Phanaeus igneus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Phanaeus igneus?
Color is highly variable: black, green or a green red combination.
Where is Phanaeus igneus found?
Range: se US (LA-FL-VA) - Map , mostly FL to NC