Philonthus nudus
This record describes Philonthus nudus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
purely black, including elytra; the latter strongly but not densely punctured; some discal pronotal punctures in common groove, like in several Cafius . Head wider in males
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Staphylininae
- Tribe
- Staphylinini
- Genus
- Philonthus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Seaweed washings on shoreline
Geographic Range
transpacific, n.China to Washington state
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Philonthus nudus Sharp 1874
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus nudus. 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 Philonthus nudus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Philonthus nudus
What is Philonthus nudus?
Philonthus nudus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Philonthus nudus?
8‒10 mm
How do you identify Philonthus nudus?
purely black, including elytra; the latter strongly but not densely punctured; some discal pronotal punctures in common groove, like in several Cafius .
Where is Philonthus nudus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Seaweed washings on shoreline |
| Range | transpacific, n.China to Washington state |