Trichodes apivorus
This record describes Trichodes apivorus (species). Recorded family: Cleridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Trichodes apivorus (Trichodes apivorus) is a species in the family Cleridae, commonly known as checkered beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Clerinae, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Cleroidea. This species belongs to the genus Trichodes. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 7-15 mm. Active during May-Jul at lower elevations in NC.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cleroidea
- Family
- Cleridae (Checkered Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Clerinae
- Genus
- Trichodes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e US (MA-FL to NE-TX) / Mex. - Map , almost all records e. of the Appalachians
Seasonal Activity
May-Jul at lower elevations in NC ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Trichodes apivorus Germar 1824
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Trichodes apivorus. 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 Trichodes apivorus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Trichodes apivorus
What is Trichodes apivorus?
Trichodes apivorus is a species in the family Cleridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Trichodes apivorus?
7-15 mm
Where is Trichodes apivorus found?
Range: e US (MA-FL to NE-TX) / Mex. - Map , almost all records e. of the Appalachians
When is Trichodes apivorus active?
Trichodes apivorus: seasonal activity - May-Jul at lower elevations in NC ( 3 ).
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