Abax parallelepipedus
This record describes Abax parallelepipedus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A large beetle (17-22 mm). The pronotum has two parallel depressions (called foveae) and it has wrinkles above its eyes. It also has a 'box-like' shape with the pronotum and elytra edges in a more or less straight line. A few Pterosticus species are also large, black beetles but the two parallel foveae and its overall shape are reasonably distinctive. Found under logs in woods and on damp moorlands. It can be found all year but most records are in late summer and autumn.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Pterostichini
- Genus
- Abax
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found under logs in woods and on damp moorlands.
Seasonal Activity
It can be found all year but most records are in late summer and autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Quite common throughout Britain
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Abax parallelepipedus. 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 Abax parallelepipedus (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Abax parallelepipedus
What is Abax parallelepipedus?
Abax parallelepipedus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Abax parallelepipedus found?
Habitat: Found under logs in woods and on damp moorlands.
When is Abax parallelepipedus active?
Abax parallelepipedus: seasonal activity - It can be found all year but most records are in late summer and autumn..