Acrotrichis rosskotheni
This record describes Acrotrichis rosskotheni (species). Recorded family: Ptiliidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

This is a very tiny, dark brown feather-wing beetle. This family contains the smallest of all beetles with a length of 0.5 mm and even the largest members of the family only measure 2 mm. Adults and larvae of this family are usually found in rotting organic material in a wide range of habitats. Seems to be widespread in England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Ptiliidae
- Genus
- Acrotrichis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Can be found in leaf litter.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adults and larvae of this family are usually found in rotting organic material in a wide range of habitats.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Seems to be widespread in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Acrotrichis rosskotheni. 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 Acrotrichis rosskotheni
What is Acrotrichis rosskotheni?
Acrotrichis rosskotheni is a species in the family Ptiliidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Acrotrichis rosskotheni found?
Habitat: Can be found in leaf litter.
When is Acrotrichis rosskotheni active?
Acrotrichis rosskotheni: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Acrotrichis rosskotheni?
Adults and larvae of this family are usually found in rotting organic material in a wide range of habitats.
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