Selenophorus opalinus
This record describes Selenophorus opalinus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Relatively large size and shiny iridescent elytra with series of tiny punctures in striae 3, 5, & 7. NB: an undescribed species discovered recently in se TX superficially appears like a small (8-8.5 mm) S. opalinus . Type locality: Carolina
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
Habitat
leaf litter in lowland hardwood forests, under rocks under forest canopy or along forest margins at low altitudes
Geographic Range
e. NA (NB-MB to FL-TX) / Bahamas
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Selenophorus opalinus (LeConte 1863)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Selenophorus opalinus. 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 opalinus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Peter Messer , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Selenophorus opalinus
What is Selenophorus opalinus?
Selenophorus opalinus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Selenophorus opalinus?
Large: 9.5-10.7 mm ; rarely ~9 mm
How do you identify Selenophorus opalinus?
Relatively large size and shiny iridescent elytra with series of tiny punctures in striae 3, 5, & 7. NB: an undescribed species discovered recently in se TX superficially appears like a small (8-8.5 mm) S. opalinus .
Where is Selenophorus opalinus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | leaf litter in lowland hardwood forests, under rocks under forest canopy or along forest margins at low altitudes |
| Range | e. NA (NB-MB to FL-TX) / Bahamas |