Tyrtaeus rufus
This record describes Tyrtaeus rufus (species). Recorded family: Tenebrionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
In spite of small size, easily seen when present because its bright reddish color reflects like a garnet when the light hits it
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Tenebrionidae (Darkling Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Diaperinae
- Tribe
- Gnathidiini
- Genus
- Tyrtaeus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
in FL and the West Indies, disturbed habitats near ports: under bark of wide variety of trees, also in association with imported orchids, under rocks, and among dead leaves
Geographic Range
origin unknown but probably Central America; spreading through the agency of man; in our area, first found in FL in 1977; also in the Neotropics (Mexico to Colombia-Venezuela + some Caribbean islands)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Tyrtaeus rufus. 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 Tyrtaeus rufus
What is Tyrtaeus rufus?
Tyrtaeus rufus is a species in the family Tenebrionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Tyrtaeus rufus?
1.1-2.3 mm
Where is Tyrtaeus rufus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | in FL and the West Indies, disturbed habitats near ports: under bark of wide variety of trees, also in association with imported orchids, under rocks, and among dead leaves |
| Range | origin unknown but probably Central America; spreading through the agency of man; in our area, first found in FL in 1977; also in the Neotropics (Mexico to Colombia-Venezuela + some Caribbean islands) |