Prostomis americanus
This record describes Prostomis americanus (species). Recorded family: Prostomidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
immature stages described in Schunger et al. (2003)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Prostomidae (Jugular-horned Beetles)
- Genus
- Prostomis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
dead logs, within a characteristic clay-like material between layers of the decaying wood fibers
Geographic Range
w. NA (BC-n.CA)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Prostomis americanus Crotch 1874
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Prostomis americanus. 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 Prostomis americanus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Prostomis americanus
What is Prostomis americanus?
Prostomis americanus is a species in the family Prostomidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Prostomis americanus?
4.8-6.2 mm
How do you identify Prostomis americanus?
immature stages described in Schunger et al. (2003)
Where is Prostomis americanus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | dead logs, within a characteristic clay-like material between layers of the decaying wood fibers |
| Range | w. NA (BC-n.CA) |