Selenophorus ellipticus
This record describes Selenophorus ellipticus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Species grossly distinguished in part by dull black dorsum (slightly shinier in male), not brassy like other small Selenophorus . Type Locality: restricted to Atlantic City, Atlantic Co., New Jersey
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Harpalini
- Genus
- Selenophorus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e US, Ont. (NM-FL-ME-MI) / n. Mex. - Map , 2 NM records based on spmns at OSU
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Selenophorus ellipticus Dejean, 1829
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Selenophorus ellipticus. 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 Selenophorus ellipticus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Selenophorus ellipticus
What is Selenophorus ellipticus?
Selenophorus ellipticus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Selenophorus ellipticus?
Species grossly distinguished in part by dull black dorsum (slightly shinier in male), not brassy like other small Selenophorus .
Where is Selenophorus ellipticus found?
Range: e US, Ont. (NM-FL-ME-MI) / n. Mex. - Map , 2 NM records based on spmns at OSU