Tetratoma truncorum
This record describes Tetratoma truncorum (species). Recorded family: Tetratomidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wikipedia reference for Tetratoma truncorum: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tetratoma_truncorum.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tetratomidae (Polypore Fungus Beetles)
- Genus
- Tetratoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
adults under bark & in decaying wood of standing dead trees
Geographic Range
e. NA, except Deep South (QC-ON to VA-OK)
Seasonal Activity
adults active in fall
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Tetratoma (Tetratoma) truncorum LeConte 1866
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Tetratoma truncorum. 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 Tetratoma truncorum (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Kyle Schnepp; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Tetratoma truncorum
How big is Tetratoma truncorum?
4.5-6.5 mm
Where is Tetratoma truncorum found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | adults under bark & in decaying wood of standing dead trees |
| Range | e. NA, except Deep South (QC-ON to VA-OK) |
When is Tetratoma truncorum active?
Tetratoma truncorum: seasonal activity - adults active in fall.