Thoracophorus costalis
This record describes Thoracophorus costalis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Osoriinae
- Tribe
- Thoracophorini
- Genus
- Thoracophorus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
found in a wide range of leaf litter, under var. bark and asso. w/ rotting logs
Geographic Range
e. NA w/ scattered Rocky Mtn records to AB-CO (NB-AB to FL-TX) - Map
Seasonal Activity
yr round
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Thoracophorus costalis (Erichson 1840)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Thoracophorus costalis. 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 Thoracophorus costalis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Thoracophorus costalis
How big is Thoracophorus costalis?
2-3 mm
Where is Thoracophorus costalis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | found in a wide range of leaf litter, under var. bark and asso. w/ rotting logs |
| Range | e. NA w/ scattered Rocky Mtn records to AB-CO (NB-AB to FL-TX) - Map |
When is Thoracophorus costalis active?
Thoracophorus costalis: seasonal activity - yr round.