Polemius binotatus
This record describes Polemius binotatus (species). Recorded family: Cantharidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Head black behind antennae, pronotum orange with two black spots on either side of median, elytra black with grayish pubescence, legs orange with tarsi darker. Sides of pronotum incised in males. Holotype
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Cantharidae (Soldier Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Silinae
- Tribe
- Silini
- Genus
- Polemius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Polemius binotatus Fall 1907
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Polemius binotatus. 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 Polemius binotatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Hadley Luker; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Polemius binotatus
What is Polemius binotatus?
Polemius binotatus is a species in the family Cantharidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Polemius binotatus?
7 mm
How do you identify Polemius binotatus?
Head black behind antennae, pronotum orange with two black spots on either side of median, elytra black with grayish pubescence, legs orange with tarsi darker. Sides of pronotum incised in males. Holotype
Where is Polemius binotatus found?
Range: AZ