Spilodiscus flohri
This record describes Spilodiscus flohri (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Spilodiscus flohri (Spilodiscus flohri) is a species in the family Histeridae, commonly known as clown beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Histerinae, tribe Histerini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Histeroidea. This species belongs to the genus Spilodiscus. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 2.8-3.4 mm. It is found in Sandy areas.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Histerinae
- Tribe
- Histerini
- Genus
- Spilodiscus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Sandy areas ( 3 )
Geographic Range
e. TX / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
obligate inquiline of pocket gopher ( Geomys ) burrows
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Spilodiscus flohri (Lewis 1898)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Spilodiscus flohri. 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 Spilodiscus flohri (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Spilodiscus flohri
What is Spilodiscus flohri?
Spilodiscus flohri is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Spilodiscus flohri?
2.8-3.4 mm
Where is Spilodiscus flohri found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Sandy areas ( 3 ) |
| Range | e. TX / Mex. - Map |
What is the life cycle of a Spilodiscus flohri?
obligate inquiline of pocket gopher ( Geomys ) burrows