Sphaeroderus nitidicollis
This record describes Sphaeroderus nitidicollis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The only relatively constant structural difference between the two sspp. is the size
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Carabinae
- Tribe
- Cychrini
- Genus
- Sphaeroderus (Small Snail Eating Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
mixed & coniferous forests, mainly under logs & in leaf litter
Geographic Range
NF-e.SK south to New England-ne.MN
Seasonal Activity
autumn breeder
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Sphaeroderus nitidicollis Guérin-Méneville 1829
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Sphaeroderus nitidicollis. 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 Sphaeroderus nitidicollis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Sphaeroderus nitidicollis
What is Sphaeroderus nitidicollis?
Sphaeroderus nitidicollis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Sphaeroderus nitidicollis?
S. n. nitidicollis 14.1-17.8 mm, S. n. brevoorti 12.5-13.8 mm
How do you identify Sphaeroderus nitidicollis?
The only relatively constant structural difference between the two sspp. is the size
Where is Sphaeroderus nitidicollis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | mixed & coniferous forests, mainly under logs & in leaf litter |
| Range | NF-e.SK south to New England-ne.MN |
When is Sphaeroderus nitidicollis active?
Sphaeroderus nitidicollis: seasonal activity - autumn breeder.