Ptinus bicinctus
This record describes Ptinus bicinctus (species). Recorded family: Ptinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
earliest records in our area: QC ~1860–1871 , ?NS 1915
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Ptinidae (Death-watch and Spider Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Ptininae
- Tribe
- Ptinini
- Genus
- Ptinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
old wooden barns, granaries, warehouses, dwellings
Geographic Range
native to Europe, adventive in our area & now widespread (BC‒NS south to NE‒IL‒NY)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ptinus bicinctus Sturm 1837
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ptinus bicinctus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ptinus bicinctus
What is Ptinus bicinctus?
Ptinus bicinctus is a species in the family Ptinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ptinus bicinctus?
2.2–3.5 mm
Where is Ptinus bicinctus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | old wooden barns, granaries, warehouses, dwellings |
| Range | native to Europe, adventive in our area & now widespread (BC‒NS south to NE‒IL‒NY) |