Spilotus quadripustulatus
This record describes Spilotus quadripustulatus (species). Recorded family: Melandryidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Det. Jeff Gruber, 2010
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Melandryidae (False Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melandryinae
- Tribe
- Xylitini
- Genus
- Spilotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Adults on vegetation, incl. leaves/twigs of deciduous trees
Geographic Range
e. NA (NS-GA to ON-WI-LA) - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly May-June (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Spilotus quadripustulatus (Melsheimer 1846)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Spilotus quadripustulatus. 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 Spilotus quadripustulatus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Spilotus quadripustulatus
How big is Spilotus quadripustulatus?
3.0-3.5 mm
How do you identify Spilotus quadripustulatus?
Det. Jeff Gruber, 2010
Where is Spilotus quadripustulatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Adults on vegetation, incl. leaves/twigs of deciduous trees |
| Range | e. NA (NS-GA to ON-WI-LA) - Map |
When is Spilotus quadripustulatus active?
Spilotus quadripustulatus: seasonal activity - mostly May-June (BG data).