Scaphisoma agaricinum
This record describes Scaphisoma agaricinum (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (2 mm) black beetle with a distinctive tear drop shape. Found in rotting timber and bracket fungi. All year round, especially August and September.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Scaphisoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in rotting timber and bracket fungi.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, especially August and September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in southern Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Scaphisoma agaricinum. 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 Scaphisoma agaricinum (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Scaphisoma agaricinum
What is Scaphisoma agaricinum?
Scaphisoma agaricinum is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Scaphisoma agaricinum found?
Habitat: Found in rotting timber and bracket fungi.
When is Scaphisoma agaricinum active?
Scaphisoma agaricinum: seasonal activity - All year round, especially August and September..