Triachus atomus
This record describes Triachus atomus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
dorsal surface dark, shiny
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cryptocephalinae
- Tribe
- Cryptocephalini
- Genus
- Triachus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US (OK-FL-ME-SD) s.Ont. - Map (the most widely dist. Triachus sp.)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
reported from 5 plant families ( 6 )
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Triachus atomus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Triachus atomus
How big is Triachus atomus?
1.4-1.6 mm , smallest chryso in N. Amer.
How do you identify Triachus atomus?
dorsal surface dark, shiny
Where is Triachus atomus found?
Range: e. US (OK-FL-ME-SD) s.Ont. - Map (the most widely dist. Triachus sp.)
What is the life cycle of a Triachus atomus?
reported from 5 plant families ( 6 )