Pyractomena punctiventris
This record describes Pyractomena punctiventris (species). Recorded family: Lampyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. B. Pfeiffer, 2016 Type series: Texas; three males; Austin, Mrs. V. O. King; Bosque Co., G. W. Belfrage (LeConte, 1878)
Identification notes
Det. B. Pfeiffer, 2016
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Lampyridae (Fireflies)
- Subfamily
- Lampyrinae
- Tribe
- Cratomorphini
- Genus
- Pyractomena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e., c. & s. Texas - Map , apparently the most widely dist. sp. within TX
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pyractomena punctiventris. 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 Pyractomena punctiventris (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Pyractomena punctiventris
What is Pyractomena punctiventris?
Pyractomena punctiventris is a species in the family Lampyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Pyractomena punctiventris?
13 mm (LeConte, 1878)
How do you identify Pyractomena punctiventris?
Det. B. Pfeiffer, 2016
Where is Pyractomena punctiventris found?
Range: e., c. & s. Texas - Map , apparently the most widely dist. sp. within TX