Ptomaphagus ulkei
This record describes Ptomaphagus ulkei (species). Recorded family: Leiodidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Very close to P. brevior and P. consobrinus . Dissection generally needed to confirm identification.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Leiodidae (Round Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cholevinae
- Genus
- Ptomaphagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Forested areas in leaf litter. Has been taken at carrion bait and one was found on a dead snail.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Known to be attracted to carrion.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ptomaphagus ulkei. 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 Ptomaphagus ulkei
What is Ptomaphagus ulkei?
Ptomaphagus ulkei is a species in the family Leiodidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ptomaphagus ulkei?
3.3 to 4.3 mm
How do you identify Ptomaphagus ulkei?
Very close to P. brevior and P. consobrinus . Dissection generally needed to confirm identification.
Where is Ptomaphagus ulkei found?
Habitat: Forested areas in leaf litter. Has been taken at carrion bait and one was found on a dead snail.
What does Ptomaphagus ulkei eat?
The diet of the Ptomaphagus ulkei includes Known to be attracted to carrion..