Stilbus apicalis
This record describes Stilbus apicalis (species). Recorded family: Phalacridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Stilbus apicalis (Stilbus apicalis) is a species in the family Phalacridae, commonly known as shining flower beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Cucujoidea. This species belongs to the genus Stilbus. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 2-2.3 mm. It is found in Adults associated with smutted fall panicgrass Panicum dichotomiflorum.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Phalacridae (Shining Flower Beetles)
- Genus
- Stilbus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Adults associated with smutted fall panicgrass Panicum dichotomiflorum ( 4 )
Geographic Range
NS-FL to MN-TX; BC-ID-CA - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Stilbus apicalis (Melsheimer 1844)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Stilbus apicalis. 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 Stilbus apicalis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Tim Moyer , v belov , Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Stilbus apicalis
What is Stilbus apicalis?
Stilbus apicalis is a species in the family Phalacridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Stilbus apicalis?
2-2.3 mm
Where is Stilbus apicalis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Adults associated with smutted fall panicgrass Panicum dichotomiflorum ( 4 ) |
| Range | NS-FL to MN-TX; BC-ID-CA - Map |