Triplax marcescens
This record describes Triplax marcescens (species). Recorded family: Erotylidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Dulled elytra, from Arizona (Paul Skelley, 12 August, 2013) ...elytra entirely dull, contrasting rather strongly with the nitidous pronotum. Another 'rare' erotylid form southern Arizona. I'm sure these are all more common, we just need to learn the host fungus. A very good find. (Paul Skelley, 12 August, 2013)
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
AZ. At the time of Boyle's family revision, this sp. was only known from 3 spmns, all from Santa Rita and Huachuca Mtns of se AZ.
Seasonal Activity
Jun-Aug , (BG data)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Triplax marcescens. 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 Triplax marcescens
What is Triplax marcescens?
Triplax marcescens is a species in the family Erotylidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Triplax marcescens?
5.2-5.8 mm
How do you identify Triplax marcescens?
Dulled elytra, from Arizona (Paul Skelley, 12 August, 2013) ...elytra entirely dull, contrasting rather strongly with the nitidous pronotum.
Where is Triplax marcescens found?
Range: AZ. At the time of Boyle's family revision, this sp. was only known from 3 spmns, all from Santa Rita and Huachuca Mtns of se AZ.
When is Triplax marcescens active?
Triplax marcescens: seasonal activity - Jun-Aug , (BG data).