Photinus ardens
This record describes Photinus ardens (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum with broader median dark vitta, its lateral margins somewhat irregular; pale area each side discolored by nubilous brownish or piceous spots, sometimes completely obscured. Form more elongate
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Lampyridae (Fireflies)
- Subfamily
- Lampyrinae
- Tribe
- Lucidotini
- Genus
- Photinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
SD-MD-NL
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Photinus ardens LeConte 1851
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Photinus ardens. 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 Photinus ardens (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Photinus ardens
What is Photinus ardens?
Photinus ardens is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Photinus ardens?
7-12.5 mm
How do you identify Photinus ardens?
Pronotum with broader median dark vitta, its lateral margins somewhat irregular; pale area each side discolored by nubilous brownish or piceous spots, sometimes completely obscured. Form more elongate
Where is Photinus ardens found?
Range: SD-MD-NL