Amara aulica
This record describes Amara aulica (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Zabrini
- Genus
- Amara
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
vacant lots, roadsides, pastures, meadows, gravel pits, usually on dry, sandy soils
Geographic Range
native to the Palaearctic, adventive in NA and now widespread across se. Canada (NF-QC) & ne. US (ME-MA)
Seasonal Activity
autumn breeder
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Amara aulica (Panzer 1796)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Amara aulica. 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 Amara aulica (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Peter W. Messer; Additional contributions by Hannah Nendick-Mason , john and jane balaban , Beatriz Moisset , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Amara aulica
How big is Amara aulica?
11.0-14.3 mm (our largest member of the genus)
Where is Amara aulica found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | vacant lots, roadsides, pastures, meadows, gravel pits, usually on dry, sandy soils |
| Range | native to the Palaearctic, adventive in NA and now widespread across se. Canada (NF-QC) & ne. US (ME-MA) |
When is Amara aulica active?
Amara aulica: seasonal activity - autumn breeder.