Polypleurus geminatus
This record describes Polypleurus geminatus (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Stenochiinae
- Tribe
- Cnodalonini
- Genus
- Polypleurus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se US (AL-FL-SC) - Map
Seasonal Activity
Feb-Dec
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Polypleurus geminatus Eschscholtz, 1831
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Polypleurus geminatus. 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 Polypleurus geminatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Kojun Kanda; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Polypleurus geminatus
How big is Polypleurus geminatus?
14 mm
Where is Polypleurus geminatus found?
Range: se US (AL-FL-SC) - Map
When is Polypleurus geminatus active?
Polypleurus geminatus: seasonal activity - Feb-Dec.