Toramus pulchellus
This record describes Toramus pulchellus (species). Recorded family: Erotylidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytra with a broad band behind the middle-both reddish-testaceous and indistinctly defined common at lights
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Erotylidae (Pleasing Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Xenoscelinae
- Genus
- Toramus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
frequently found under stones in the spring
Geographic Range
e. NA (TX-FL-NH-IA) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) , uncommon across the se. US other than possibly in TX
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Mar-Oct (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: pulchellus (L). 'beautiful'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Toramus pulchellus. 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 Toramus pulchellus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Toramus pulchellus
What is Toramus pulchellus?
Toramus pulchellus is a species in the family Erotylidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Toramus pulchellus?
elytra with a broad band behind the middle-both reddish-testaceous and indistinctly defined
Where is Toramus pulchellus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | frequently found under stones in the spring |
| Range | e. NA (TX-FL-NH-IA) - Map ( 3 ) ( 4 ) ( 5 ) , uncommon across the se. US other than possibly in TX |
When is Toramus pulchellus active?
Toramus pulchellus: seasonal activity - mostly: Mar-Oct (BG data).