Telegeusis debilis
This record describes Telegeusis debilis (species). Recorded family: Omethidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytra tapering, narrow, subacute and long, extending one-third their length beyond the hind coxae; head much longer than the pronotum. this spmn from the Chiricahuas Mtns seems to fit this sp's description - New US Record? Type Locality: Sierra San Lazaro, Baja California (? 10 mi. NW. of San Jose del Cabo)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Elateroidea
- Family
- Omethidae (False Soldier Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Telegeusinae
- Genus
- Telegeusis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Telegeusis debilis Horn 1895
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Telegeusis debilis. 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 Telegeusis debilis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Telegeusis debilis
What is Telegeusis debilis?
Telegeusis debilis is a species in the family Omethidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Telegeusis debilis?
5.5 mm
How do you identify Telegeusis debilis?
Elytra tapering, narrow, subacute and long, extending one-third their length beyond the hind coxae; head much longer than the pronotum. this spmn from the Chiricahuas Mtns seems to fit this sp's description - New US Record?