Acupalpus meridianus
This record describes Acupalpus meridianus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
3.5 to 4.5 mm. The elytra of this small ground beetle are pale orange marked with large darker areas. Unless identified by a recognised expert, photos are required from above and below. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. This species of ground beetle uses a variety of habitats and will tolerate both dry and damp conditions. It has been recorded from sites as diverse as woodland and post-industrial areas. Widespread in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Harpalini
- Genus
- Acupalpus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
This species of ground beetle uses a variety of habitats and will tolerate both dry and damp conditions. It has been recorded from sites as diverse as woodland and post-industrial areas.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time is from April to early June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Acupalpus meridianus. 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 Acupalpus meridianus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupalpus meridianus
What is Acupalpus meridianus?
Acupalpus meridianus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Acupalpus meridianus found?
Habitat: This species of ground beetle uses a variety of habitats and will tolerate both dry and damp conditions. It has been recorded from sites as diverse as woodland and post-industrial areas.
When is Acupalpus meridianus active?
Acupalpus meridianus: seasonal activity - Peak time is from April to early June..