Ontholestes
Ontholestes
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Staphylinoidea
- Family: Staphylinidae
- Subfamily: Staphylininae
- Tribe: Staphylinini
- Subtribe: Staphylinina
- Genus: Ontholestes
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ontholestes: //ˌɒnθoʊˈlɛstiːz//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
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Summary
Ontholestes is a genus of large rove beetles known for their ecological role in decomposing organic matter, with species found in various habitats ranging from dung to decaying fungi.
Physical Characteristics
Large rove beetles with elongated bodies and distinctive grooved elytra.
Identification Tips
Look for their large size and elongated thorax. The color can vary, but they usually have a dark appearance.
Habitat
Commonly found in habitats with decaying organic matter such as dung, carrion, and rotten fungi.
Distribution
The native species O. cingulatus is common in eastern and northwestern North America, while O. murinus, an adventive species, is from Europe.
Diet
They primarily feed on decaying organic matter, including dung, carrion, and rotten fungi.
Life Cycle
Details on the life cycle are not fully described, but like other beetles, they undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to larva to pupa to adult.
Reproduction
Reproductive habits are not specified, but it is common for rove beetles to lay eggs in decaying matter where larvae can find food.
Predators
No specific predators mentioned; likely to be preyed upon by a variety of insects and birds that feed on beetles.
Conservation Status
Not assessed; the conservation status is not specifically indicated for the genus.
Ecosystem Role
They play an important role in ecosystems as decomposers, breaking down decaying organic matter.
Economic Impact
No significant economic impact noted; may serve beneficial roles in waste decomposition.
Cultural Significance
No cultural significance specifically noted for this genus.
Health Concerns
No health concerns associated with this genus are mentioned.
Collecting Methods
- Insect nets
- Pitfall traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying and pinning
Evolution
A diverse genus with an evolutionary history spanning several genera of rove beetles, primarily found in Eurasia.
Misconceptions
Not commonly confused with other insects, but mistaken for other rove beetles due to size and habitat.
Tags
- Rove beetles
- Decomposers
- Eurasian species
- Native species
- Adventive species