Platysoma aurelianum
This record describes Platysoma aurelianum (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
rare in collections Type Locality: New Orleans, Louisiana
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Histerinae
- Tribe
- Platysomatini
- Genus
- Platysoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
under bark of dead trees, primarily deciduous; also reported from mushrooms
Geographic Range
e. NA (QC-SK to FL-TX) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Platysoma aurelianum (Horn 1873)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platysoma aurelianum. 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 Platysoma aurelianum (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Gruber; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Platysoma aurelianum
What is Platysoma aurelianum?
Platysoma aurelianum is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Platysoma aurelianum?
3.2-3.8 mm
Where is Platysoma aurelianum found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | under bark of dead trees, primarily deciduous; also reported from mushrooms |
| Range | e. NA (QC-SK to FL-TX) - Map |