Taphroscelidia linearis
This record describes Taphroscelidia linearis (species). Recorded family: Passandridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Det. E. G. Riley, 2009 comes to lights
Identification notes
Det. E. G. Riley, 2009
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Passandridae (Parasitic Flat Bark Beetles)
- Genus
- Taphroscelidia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se. US (TX-FL-SC, MO) to C. Amer. / W. Indies - Map , concentration of records from Dallas to RGV
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Mar-Nov ( 3 )
Diet and Behavior
Life History
larvae ectoparasitic on bark beetles ( 4 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Taphroscelidia linearis. 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 Taphroscelidia linearis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Taphroscelidia linearis
What is Taphroscelidia linearis?
Taphroscelidia linearis is a species in the family Passandridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Taphroscelidia linearis?
4.4-7.1 mm
How do you identify Taphroscelidia linearis?
Det. E. G. Riley, 2009
Where is Taphroscelidia linearis found?
Range: se. US (TX-FL-SC, MO) to C. Amer. / W. Indies - Map , concentration of records from Dallas to RGV
When is Taphroscelidia linearis active?
Taphroscelidia linearis: seasonal activity - mostly: Mar-Nov ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Taphroscelidia linearis?
larvae ectoparasitic on bark beetles ( 4 )
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