Thanatophilus sinuatus
This record describes Thanatophilus sinuatus (species). Recorded family: Silphidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A greyish beetle measuring 10 to 14 mm. It has longitudinal ridges along the elytra and the pronotum has a rather mottled appearance. Thanatophilus sinuatus is a carrion feeder and may be encountered anywhere that carrion is present. Found on carrion and carcasses during the whole process of decomposition. Occasional in Britain with most records coming from the Midlands, East Anglia and the south east of England.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Silphidae
- Genus
- Thanatophilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Thanatophilus sinuatus is a carrion feeder and may be encountered anywhere that carrion is present.
Seasonal Activity
May to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Found on carrion and carcasses during the whole process of decomposition.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Occasional in Britain with most records coming from the Midlands, East Anglia and the south east of England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Thanatophilus sinuatus. 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 Thanatophilus sinuatus (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Thanatophilus sinuatus
What is Thanatophilus sinuatus?
Thanatophilus sinuatus is a species in the family Silphidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Thanatophilus sinuatus found?
Habitat: Thanatophilus sinuatus is a carrion feeder and may be encountered anywhere that carrion is present.
When is Thanatophilus sinuatus active?
Thanatophilus sinuatus: seasonal activity - May to September..
What is the life cycle of a Thanatophilus sinuatus?
Found on carrion and carcasses during the whole process of decomposition.