Amara communis
This record describes Amara communis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 to 8mm with a dark brassy appearance. It is one of many similar Amara beetles and detailed examination is needed. Amara communis lacks a scutellary pore, has pale antennal 1-3 segments, punctures around the pronotal foveae and gap along the row of marginal elytral punctures. Often seen running around on sunny days, also found in moss and leaf litter. Can be seen in most months of the year but most likely to be found between April and June. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
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
Often seen running around on sunny days, also found in moss and leaf litter.
Seasonal Activity
Can be seen in most months of the year but most likely to be found between April and June.
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 Amara communis. 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 communis (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Amara communis
What is Amara communis?
Amara communis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Amara communis?
6 to 8mm with a dark brassy appearance. It is one of many similar Amara beetles and detailed examination is needed. Amara communis lacks a scutellary pore, has pale antennal 1-3 segments, punctures around the pronotal foveae and gap along the row of marginal elytral punctures.
Where is Amara communis found?
Habitat: Often seen running around on sunny days, also found in moss and leaf litter.
When is Amara communis active?
Amara communis: seasonal activity - Can be seen in most months of the year but most likely to be found between April and June..