Triplax frontalis
This record describes Triplax frontalis (species). Recorded family: Erotylidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Erotylidae (Pleasing Fungus Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Erotylinae
- Tribe
- Tritomini
- Genus
- Triplax
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US (NJ-FL to NE-TX) - Map , mostly s. Great Plains
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Adults and larvae feed in soft bracket fungi ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Triplax frontalis Horn 1862
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Triplax frontalis. 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 frontalis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Triplax frontalis
How big is Triplax frontalis?
3.9-5.9 mm
Where is Triplax frontalis found?
Range: e. US (NJ-FL to NE-TX) - Map , mostly s. Great Plains
What does Triplax frontalis eat?
The diet of the Triplax frontalis includes Adults and larvae feed in soft bracket fungi ( 3 ).