Tecnophilus pilatei
This record describes Tecnophilus pilatei (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
distinguished from more widespread T. c. croceicollis by the dark apices (knees) of the femora, elytral striae much more coarsely punctate, and narrower, less cordate pronotum. (comment by P.W. Messer, 12 June, 2021) Type locality: Goose Island State Park, Aransas Co., TX
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Lebiini
- Genus
- Tecnophilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
coastal TX - Map , most records from across southmost TX
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Tecnophilus pilatei Chaudoir, 1877
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Tecnophilus pilatei. 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 Tecnophilus pilatei (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Peter W. Messer; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Tecnophilus pilatei
What is Tecnophilus pilatei?
Tecnophilus pilatei is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Tecnophilus pilatei?
distinguished from more widespread T. c. croceicollis by the dark apices (knees) of the femora, elytral striae much more coarsely punctate, and narrower, less cordate pronotum. (comment by P.W. Messer, 12 June, 2021)
Where is Tecnophilus pilatei found?
Range: coastal TX - Map , most records from across southmost TX