Platycerus oregonensis
This record describes Platycerus oregonensis (species). Recorded family: Lucanidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
According to Benesh 1946: Non-dentate mandible Longitudinal pronotal depression Head and pronotum black Sides sinuate at basal angles (obtuse) Head widest behind eyes Anterior margin of pronotum sinuate As well as some further marks, but the key uses the first four to differentiate from P. delicatulus The non-denticulate mandibles separate the oregonensis group. The other species in this group is Platycerus delicatulus Which is found in Japan, so the likelihood of you encountering it is rather slim
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Lucanidae (Stag Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Lucaninae
- Tribe
- Platycerini
- Genus
- Platycerus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Dead logs.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae have been found in rotting logs of maple, madrone, live oak, blue gum, and red alder
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platycerus oregonensis. 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 Platycerus oregonensis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Will Chatfield-Taylor
Frequently Asked Questions About Platycerus oregonensis
What is Platycerus oregonensis?
Platycerus oregonensis is a species in the family Lucanidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Platycerus oregonensis?
11.2-15.4mm
How do you identify Platycerus oregonensis?
According to Benesh 1946: Non-dentate mandible Longitudinal pronotal depression Head and pronotum black Sides sinuate at basal angles (obtuse) Head widest behind eyes Anterior margin of pronotum sinuate As well as some further marks, but the key uses the first four to differentiate from P. delicatulus
Where is Platycerus oregonensis found?
Habitat: Dead logs.
What is the life cycle of a Platycerus oregonensis?
Larvae have been found in rotting logs of maple, madrone, live oak, blue gum, and red alder