Platidiolus vandykei
This record describes Platidiolus vandykei (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Color rufous, head darker; eyes small, genae long, 3rd elytral interval with 3 punctures (Lindroth 1961)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Trechinae
- Tribe
- Patrobini
- Genus
- Platidiolus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
mountainous regions; among gravel/rocks on barren river banks (Lindroth 1961)
Geographic Range
nw. NA (AK-OR to YT-AB-MT)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Platidiolus vandykei Kurnakov 1960
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platidiolus vandykei. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Platidiolus vandykei
What is Platidiolus vandykei?
Platidiolus vandykei is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Platidiolus vandykei?
5.2-6 mm (Lindroth 1961)
How do you identify Platidiolus vandykei?
Color rufous, head darker; eyes small, genae long, 3rd elytral interval with 3 punctures (Lindroth 1961)
Where is Platidiolus vandykei found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | mountainous regions; among gravel/rocks on barren river banks (Lindroth 1961) |
| Range | nw. NA (AK-OR to YT-AB-MT) |