Tanaops longiceps
This record describes Tanaops longiceps (species). Recorded family: Melyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Type specimen Original description as reprinted in Fall
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cleroidea
- Family
- Melyridae (Soft-winged Flower Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Malachiinae
- Tribe
- Malachiini
- Genus
- Tanaops
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
common on Eriogonum fasciculatum in coastal southern California ― Adriean Mayor
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Tanaops longiceps LeConte 1852
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Tanaops longiceps. 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 Tanaops longiceps (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Harsi S. Parker; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Tanaops longiceps
What is Tanaops longiceps?
Tanaops longiceps is a species in the family Melyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Tanaops longiceps?
Type specimen Original description as reprinted in Fall
Where is Tanaops longiceps found?
Habitat: common on Eriogonum fasciculatum in coastal southern California ― Adriean Mayor