Phausis rhombica
This record describes Phausis rhombica (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Rhomboid pronotum distinctive. Body all-black. Transparent windows large, nearly meeting. The similarly shaped Ph. inaccensa is brownish and eastern in distribution.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Lampyridae (Fireflies)
- Subfamily
- Photurinae
- Genus
- Phausis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
sw. AB to BC south to OR
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phausis rhombica Fender in Hatch 1962
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phausis rhombica. 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 Phausis rhombica (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ted Kropiewnicki; Additional contributions by Stephen Luk , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Phausis rhombica
What is Phausis rhombica?
Phausis rhombica is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phausis rhombica?
6-7 mm
How do you identify Phausis rhombica?
Rhomboid pronotum distinctive. Body all-black. Transparent windows large, nearly meeting. The similarly shaped Ph. inaccensa is brownish and eastern in distribution.
Where is Phausis rhombica found?
Range: sw. AB to BC south to OR