Photinus stellaris
This record describes Photinus stellaris (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Elytra | Elytra entirely black (i.e. lacking pale margins). |
| Pronotum | Pronotum entirely rufous, or rarely somewhat dusky anteriorly Form elongate, as in P. collustrans seems more elongated than other spp. with pale pronota... Described from a series of nine examples, all males, collected by Mr. O. C. Poling at Alpine, Texas. (Fall 1927) assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List |
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
w. to c. TX
Seasonal Activity
Apr-July
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The canyon imp occurs along limestone rivers. Males are known to congregate in large numbers in sycamore trees along these rivers, sometimes flashing in near synchrony.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Photinus stellaris Fall 1927
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Photinus stellaris. 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 stellaris (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Photinus stellaris
What is Photinus stellaris?
Photinus stellaris is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Photinus stellaris?
6.5-9 mm
How do you identify Photinus stellaris?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Elytra | Elytra entirely black (i.e. lacking pale margins). |
| Pronotum | Pronotum entirely rufous, or rarely somewhat dusky anteriorly Form elongate, as in P. collustrans seems more elongated than other spp. with pale pronota... |
Where is Photinus stellaris found?
Range: w. to c. TX
When is Photinus stellaris active?
Photinus stellaris: seasonal activity - Apr-July.
What is the life cycle of a Photinus stellaris?
The canyon imp occurs along limestone rivers. Males are known to congregate in large numbers in sycamore trees along these rivers, sometimes flashing in near synchrony.