Photinus consimilis
This record describes Photinus consimilis (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Form similar to P. pyralis , less elongate. Pronotum with well defined median dark vitta attaining base, slightly broader in front; each side fulvous. Scutellum and mesonotal areas dark piceous. (abbreviated description) ( 4 ) Type Locality: Roaring River State Park, Missouri
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
Habitat
around wet ground, marshes, along streams ( 6 )
Geographic Range
e. US to MO-LA - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Flash pattern of 4-11 yellow flashes; with flash period about one-half second; with a pause of 6-15 sec between consecutive patterns; ( 6 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Photinus consimilis Green, 1956
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Photinus consimilis. 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 consimilis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Moyer; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Photinus consimilis
What is Photinus consimilis?
Photinus consimilis is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Photinus consimilis?
Length 8-15 mm ( 4 )
How do you identify Photinus consimilis?
Form similar to P. pyralis , less elongate. Pronotum with well defined median dark vitta attaining base, slightly broader in front; each side fulvous. Scutellum and mesonotal areas dark piceous. (abbreviated description) ( 4 )
Where is Photinus consimilis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | around wet ground, marshes, along streams ( 6 ) |
| Range | e. US to MO-LA - Map |
What is the life cycle of a Photinus consimilis?
Flash pattern of 4-11 yellow flashes; with flash period about one-half second; with a pause of 6-15 sec between consecutive patterns; ( 6 )