Ptomaphagus subvillosus
This record describes Ptomaphagus subvillosus (species). Recorded family: Leiodidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2.2 to 3.7 mm. The pronotum and elytra have transverse microscopic sculpture plus flat hairs. The antennal club is all dark. The first four segments of the front tarsi are broadened: weakly in females but clearly so in males with the 4th segment broader than long. The inner margin of the hind tibia is strongly curved in males, more weakly so in females. Beetles in this genus are associated with the runs and nests of mammals, particularly small rodents but can sometimes be found above ground on carcasses.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Leiodidae
- Genus
- Ptomaphagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with carrion.
Seasonal Activity
All year but especially in Spring.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ptomaphagus subvillosus. 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 Ptomaphagus subvillosus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ptomaphagus subvillosus
What is Ptomaphagus subvillosus?
Ptomaphagus subvillosus is a species in the family Leiodidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ptomaphagus subvillosus?
2.2 to 3.7 mm. The pronotum and elytra have transverse microscopic sculpture plus flat hairs. The antennal club is all dark. The first four segments of the front tarsi are broadened: weakly in females but clearly so in males with the 4th segment broader than long. The inner margin of the hind tibia is strongly curved in males, more weakly so in females.
Where is Ptomaphagus subvillosus found?
Habitat: Associated with carrion.
When is Ptomaphagus subvillosus active?
Ptomaphagus subvillosus: seasonal activity - All year but especially in Spring..