Platynus cincticollis
This record describes Platynus cincticollis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Differs most noticeably from P. tenuicollis by having two red spots on the head and a proportionately broader pronotum - Curt Harden via ID of the following. See Attracted to lights ( 3 )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Platynini
- Genus
- Platynus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on tree trunks, under bark and debris ( 3 )
Geographic Range
e NA (NS-FL to se.MN-TX); Bermuda - Map , mostly e. of the Brazos R.
Seasonal Activity
Nocturnal adults active spring and summer ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Platynus cincticollis (Say 1823)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platynus cincticollis. 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 Platynus cincticollis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Platynus cincticollis
What is Platynus cincticollis?
Platynus cincticollis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Platynus cincticollis?
Differs most noticeably from P. tenuicollis by having two red spots on the head and a proportionately broader pronotum - Curt Harden via ID of the following. See
Where is Platynus cincticollis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Found on tree trunks, under bark and debris ( 3 ) |
| Range | e NA (NS-FL to se.MN-TX); Bermuda - Map , mostly e. of the Brazos R. |
When is Platynus cincticollis active?
Platynus cincticollis: seasonal activity - Nocturnal adults active spring and summer ( 3 ).