Anchomenus dorsalis
This record describes Anchomenus dorsalis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length of 8-9mm. One of the most colourful species of this genus. The elytra vary from orange to greeny-black with large chestnut red or orange patches at the shoulders, whilst the thorax is a brassy green, and the legs are yellow. Various including open grassland, woodland, under stones etc. A quick, long-legged predator that is equipped with powerful jaws
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Anchomenus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various including open grassland, woodland, under stones etc.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A quick, long-legged predator that is equipped with powerful jaws
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Anchomenus dorsalis. 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 Anchomenus dorsalis (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Anchomenus dorsalis
What is Anchomenus dorsalis?
Anchomenus dorsalis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Anchomenus dorsalis?
of 8-9mm. One of the most colourful species of this genus. The elytra vary from orange to greeny-black with large chestnut red or orange patches at the shoulders, whilst the thorax is a brassy green, and the legs are yellow.
Where is Anchomenus dorsalis found?
Habitat: Various including open grassland, woodland, under stones etc.
What is the life cycle of a Anchomenus dorsalis?
A quick, long-legged predator that is equipped with powerful jaws