Black Stinkhorn Beetle
Psilopyga histrina
This record describes Psilopyga histrina (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The solid black coloration (lighter on teneral specimens) and slightly smaller size distinguish it from its otherwise similar P. nigripennis
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Nitidulidae (Sap-feeding Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Nitidulinae
- Tribe
- Cyllodini
- Genus
- Psilopyga
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
may co-occur with P. nigripennis on the same mushroom
Geographic Range
e. US (New England-WI-FL)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Psilopyga histrina LeConte
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Psilopyga histrina. 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 Black Stinkhorn Beetle (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Stinkhorn Beetle
What is Black Stinkhorn Beetle?
Black Stinkhorn Beetle (Psilopyga histrina) is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Black Stinkhorn Beetle?
4.5-6.0 mm
How do you identify Black Stinkhorn Beetle?
The solid black coloration (lighter on teneral specimens) and slightly smaller size distinguish it from its otherwise similar P. nigripennis
Where is Black Stinkhorn Beetle found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | may co-occur with P. nigripennis on the same mushroom |
| Range | e. US (New England-WI-FL) |