Triplax aenea
This record describes Triplax aenea (species). Recorded family: Erotylidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (about 6 mm) and colourful beetle with greenish elytra studded in rows, and with orange head, pronotum and legs. Associated with fungi and can be found in numbers on large bracket fungi soon after they open. Widespread in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Erotylidae
- Genus
- Triplax
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with fungi and can be found in numbers on large bracket fungi soon after they open.
Seasonal Activity
May to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Triplax aenea. 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 Triplax aenea (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Triplax aenea
What is Triplax aenea?
Triplax aenea is a species in the family Erotylidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Triplax aenea found?
Habitat: Associated with fungi and can be found in numbers on large bracket fungi soon after they open.
When is Triplax aenea active?
Triplax aenea: seasonal activity - May to October..