Amara familiaris
This record describes Amara familiaris (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
It is small, around 5-7 mm with a dark metallic lustre and red/brown legs. The front corners of the pronotum are sharp which helps to distinguish this from other similar Amara species. Most often seen between spring and summer
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
It favours dry habitats
Seasonal Activity
Most often seen between spring and summer
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It hunts during the day in warm weather
Additional species information
Recorded status
Very common throughout much of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Amara familiaris. 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 familiaris (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Amara familiaris
What is Amara familiaris?
Amara familiaris is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Amara familiaris found?
Habitat: It favours dry habitats
When is Amara familiaris active?
Amara familiaris: seasonal activity - Most often seen between spring and summer.
What is the life cycle of a Amara familiaris?
It hunts during the day in warm weather