Philonthus sericans
This record describes Philonthus sericans (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Six punctures in each of the dorsal rows on the pronotum.
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
Various decaying matter (old mushrooms, compost piles, grass clippings, carcasses, etc.). Also taken from the entrances of burrows and nests (marmots, muskrats)
Geographic Range
Widely distributed over eastern NA, except in the northern areas. Transcontinental in the south: AZ, CA to FL
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Philonthus sericans Gravenhorst, 1802
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus sericans. 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 sericans (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , NickBedard , pierrickb
Frequently Asked Questions About Philonthus sericans
What is Philonthus sericans?
Philonthus sericans is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Philonthus sericans?
4.7-6.8 mm
How do you identify Philonthus sericans?
Six punctures in each of the dorsal rows on the pronotum.
Where is Philonthus sericans found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Various decaying matter (old mushrooms, compost piles, grass clippings, carcasses, etc.). Also taken from the entrances of burrows and nests (marmots, muskrats) |
| Range | Widely distributed over eastern NA, except in the northern areas. Transcontinental in the south: AZ, CA to FL |