Pycnomerus fuliginosus
This record describes Pycnomerus fuliginosus (species). Recorded family: Zopheridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (about 4 mm) dark grey or blackish, distinctively shaped bark beetle. Antennae with a weak 2 segmented club and all other segments transverse. Good quality images are required and specimen should be retained if possible until the record has been accepted. It is found under the bark of various broad leaved trees. An introduced species from Australia, first found in UK 1964. It is rapidly spreading north. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Zopheridae
- Genus
- Pycnomerus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is found under the bark of various broad leaved trees.
Seasonal Activity
Most often noticed in summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
An introduced species from Australia, first found in UK 1964. It is rapidly spreading north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pycnomerus fuliginosus. 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 Pycnomerus fuliginosus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pycnomerus fuliginosus
What is Pycnomerus fuliginosus?
Pycnomerus fuliginosus is a species in the family Zopheridae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Pycnomerus fuliginosus found?
Habitat: It is found under the bark of various broad leaved trees.
When is Pycnomerus fuliginosus active?
Pycnomerus fuliginosus: seasonal activity - Most often noticed in summer..