Photinus knulli
This record describes Photinus knulli (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
differs from other members of the P. consanguineus group by male genitalia the only lekking firefly known in North America (Cicero 1983)
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
AZ
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Gravid females cannot fly. Larvae are subterranean and so contribute negligibly to dispersal (Cicero 1983)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Photinus knulli Green 1956
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Photinus knulli. 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 knulli (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Photinus knulli
What is Photinus knulli?
Photinus knulli is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Photinus knulli?
differs from other members of the P. consanguineus group by male genitalia
Where is Photinus knulli found?
Range: AZ
What is the life cycle of a Photinus knulli?
Gravid females cannot fly. Larvae are subterranean and so contribute negligibly to dispersal (Cicero 1983)