Conotelus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Cucujoidea
Family: Nitidulidae
Subfamily: Cillaeinae
Genus: Conotelus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Conotelus: //kəˈnoʊtələs//

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Summary

Conotelus is a genus of sap-feeding beetles in the family Nitidulidae with at least four described species. They are characterized by their small size and are often found in flower habitats where they contribute to pollination.

Physical Characteristics

2.5-5 mm in size, similar in shape to rove beetles (Staphylinidae), with a typical Nitidulidae antennal club.

Identification Tips

1. Abdomen acutely margined. Head prolonged behind the eyes. Sides of thorax posteriorly sinuate (C. stenoides). 2. Pronotum not rugulose, finely granular between punctures (C. fuscipennis). 3. Tibiae testaceous for Rocky Mts. eastward (C. obscurus).

Habitat

Often found in tubular flowers such as morning glory and bindweed (Convolvulaceae).

Distribution

New World, mostly Neotropical.

Diet

Adults feed on pollen without damaging the flower; specific species feed on corn, cotton, and Dianthus (Caryophyllaceae).

Ecosystem Role

Pollinators as they feed on pollen; specific interactions with certain crops.

Economic Impact

C. stenoides feeds on corn and C. obscurus feeds inside cotton blossoms, making them relevant to agriculture.

Similar Taxa

Rove beetles (Staphylinidae)