Amara musculis
This record describes Amara musculis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
MCZ specimen
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
sand/gravel pits, fields, orchards, forest edges/clearings, meadows, usually on dry sandy soils with sparse vegetation
Geographic Range
widely dist. (NS‒nw.FL to BC‒CA‒NM)
Seasonal Activity
autumn breeder
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Amara musculis (Say 1823)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Amara musculis. 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 musculis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Amara musculis
How big is Amara musculis?
3.9‒6.5 mm
How do you identify Amara musculis?
MCZ specimen
Where is Amara musculis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | sand/gravel pits, fields, orchards, forest edges/clearings, meadows, usually on dry sandy soils with sparse vegetation |
| Range | widely dist. (NS‒nw.FL to BC‒CA‒NM) |
When is Amara musculis active?
Amara musculis: seasonal activity - autumn breeder.