Phenolia grossa
This record describes Phenolia grossa (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Phenolia grossa (Phenolia grossa) is a species in the family Nitidulidae, commonly known as sap-feeding beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Nitidulinae, tribe Nitidulini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Cucujoidea. This species belongs to the genus Phenolia. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 6.0-8.5 mm. It is found in under bark and on fungi. Active during year round.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Nitidulidae (Sap-feeding Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Nitidulinae
- Tribe
- Nitidulini
- Genus
- Phenolia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
under bark and on fungi ( 6 )
Geographic Range
e. NA (NS-NC-AL to ON-MN-NM) - Map , uncommon across the se US
Seasonal Activity
year round ( 6 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phenolia grossa (Fabricius 1801)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phenolia grossa. 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 Phenolia grossa (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Stephen_WV; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Phenolia grossa
What is Phenolia grossa?
Phenolia grossa is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phenolia grossa?
6.0-8.5 mm
Where is Phenolia grossa found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | under bark and on fungi ( 6 ) |
| Range | e. NA (NS-NC-AL to ON-MN-NM) - Map , uncommon across the se US |
When is Phenolia grossa active?
Phenolia grossa: seasonal activity - year round ( 6 ).
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