Telmatophilus typhae
This record describes Telmatophilus typhae (species). Recorded family: Cryptophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (1.5 to 2 mm) dark grey-black beetle. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Please state the host plant on which the beetle was found when adding your record. Wet areas and pool margins where Bulrush (Typha sp.) are present. It can be found by beating or peeling back the outer leaves to expose hibernating specimens. Can be found in most months of the year with a possible peak in May and June. Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Cryptophagidae (Silken Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cryptophaginae
- Tribe
- Cryptophagini
- Genus
- Telmatophilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wet areas and pool margins where Bulrush (Typha sp.) are present. It can be found by beating or peeling back the outer leaves to expose hibernating specimens.
Seasonal Activity
Can be found in most months of the year with a possible peak in May and June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Telmatophilus typhae. 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 Telmatophilus typhae (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Telmatophilus typhae
What is Telmatophilus typhae?
Telmatophilus typhae is a species in the family Cryptophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Telmatophilus typhae found?
Habitat: Wet areas and pool margins where Bulrush (Typha sp.) are present. It can be found by beating or peeling back the outer leaves to expose hibernating specimens.
When is Telmatophilus typhae active?
Telmatophilus typhae: seasonal activity - Can be found in most months of the year with a possible peak in May and June..