Sculptotheca puberula
This record describes Sculptotheca puberula (species). Recorded family: Ptinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
the most frequently collected ptinid by passive trapping in Wisconsin forests
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Ptinidae (Death-watch and Spider Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dorcatominae
- Tribe
- Prothecini
- Genus
- Sculptotheca
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
e. NA (NS-FL to ON-WI)
Seasonal Activity
mid-Jun to early Sep in WI
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Sculptotheca puberula (LeConte 1865)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Sculptotheca puberula. 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 Sculptotheca puberula (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Boris Bueche , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Sculptotheca puberula
What is Sculptotheca puberula?
Sculptotheca puberula is a species in the family Ptinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Sculptotheca puberula?
1.5–2.2 mm
Where is Sculptotheca puberula found?
Habitat: e. NA (NS-FL to ON-WI)
When is Sculptotheca puberula active?
Sculptotheca puberula: seasonal activity - mid-Jun to early Sep in WI.