Aleochara bipustulata
This record describes Aleochara bipustulata (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2 to 4.5 mm. A blackish coloured Rove Beetle with two orangey yellow spots - one on each wing case. Various habitats, but particularly associated with Cabbage plants it has also been found in moss and flood refuse. Most records are between January and August. This rove beetle is parasitic on the Cabbage root maggot and has been considered for introduction to Canada for biological control of this pest. Fairly frequent throughout England and Wales No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Aleochara
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats, but particularly associated with Cabbage plants it has also been found in moss and flood refuse.
Seasonal Activity
Most records are between January and August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This rove beetle is parasitic on the Cabbage root maggot and has been considered for introduction to Canada for biological control of this pest.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent throughout England and Wales
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Aleochara bipustulata. 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 Aleochara bipustulata
What is Aleochara bipustulata?
Aleochara bipustulata is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Aleochara bipustulata?
2 to 4.5 mm. A blackish coloured Rove Beetle with two orangey yellow spots - one on each wing case.
Where is Aleochara bipustulata found?
Habitat: Various habitats, but particularly associated with Cabbage plants it has also been found in moss and flood refuse.
When is Aleochara bipustulata active?
Aleochara bipustulata: seasonal activity - Most records are between January and August..
What is the life cycle of a Aleochara bipustulata?
This rove beetle is parasitic on the Cabbage root maggot and has been considered for introduction to Canada for biological control of this pest.