Plegaderus transversus
This record describes Plegaderus transversus (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Abraeinae
- Tribe
- Abraeini
- Genus
- Plegaderus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
under the bark of dead trees (primarily pines), mostly in bark beetle galleries
Geographic Range
e. NA (QC-ON to FL-TX)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: small soft-bodied arthropods, incl. bark beetle eggs and young larvae
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Plegaderus transversus (Say 1825)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Plegaderus transversus. 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 Plegaderus transversus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Plegaderus transversus
How big is Plegaderus transversus?
1.2-1.6 mm
Where is Plegaderus transversus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | under the bark of dead trees (primarily pines), mostly in bark beetle galleries |
| Range | e. NA (QC-ON to FL-TX) |
What does Plegaderus transversus eat?
The diet of the Plegaderus transversus includes small soft-bodied arthropods, incl. bark beetle eggs and young larvae.