Aleochara lanuginosa
This record describes Aleochara lanuginosa (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3.5 to 5 mm. A dark blackish rove beetle, the elytra may show a varying amount of red. Found in various habitats including in dung, on carcasses and in grass tussocks. Aleochara larvae feed in the puparia of suitable species of flies, killing the host in the process. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aleocharinae
- Tribe
- Aleocharini
- Genus
- Aleochara
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in various habitats including in dung, on carcasses and in grass tussocks.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Aleochara larvae feed in the puparia of suitable species of flies, killing the host in the process.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Aleochara lanuginosa. 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 Aleochara lanuginosa (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Aleochara lanuginosa
What is Aleochara lanuginosa?
Aleochara lanuginosa is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Aleochara lanuginosa?
3.5 to 5 mm. A dark blackish rove beetle, the elytra may show a varying amount of red.
Where is Aleochara lanuginosa found?
Habitat: Found in various habitats including in dung, on carcasses and in grass tussocks.
When is Aleochara lanuginosa active?
Aleochara lanuginosa: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Aleochara lanuginosa?
Aleochara larvae feed in the puparia of suitable species of flies, killing the host in the process.