Pterotus obscuripennis
This record describes Pterotus obscuripennis (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wikipedia reference for Pterotus obscuripennis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pterotus_obscuripennis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Lampyridae (Fireflies)
- Subfamily
- Photurinae
- Genus
- Pterotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
chapparal, foothills
Geographic Range
WA-CA
Seasonal Activity
comes to lights in spring/early summer
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pterotus obscuripennis LeConte 1859
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pterotus obscuripennis. 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 Pterotus obscuripennis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Eric R. Eaton; Additional contributions by v belov , James Bailey
Frequently Asked Questions About Pterotus obscuripennis
How big is Pterotus obscuripennis?
9.5-12.0 mm
Where is Pterotus obscuripennis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | chapparal, foothills |
| Range | WA-CA |
When is Pterotus obscuripennis active?
Pterotus obscuripennis: seasonal activity - comes to lights in spring/early summer.