Anthobium atrocephalum
This record describes Anthobium atrocephalum (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (3 to 3.5 mm) rove beetle with a broader shape than the typical Staphylinidae. Identification is difficult – see ‘Recording Advice’. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Often found in leaf litter in or near to woodland, but may occur in other habitats. Has been recorded in most months of the year with a peak around April and May. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Identification notes
is difficult – see ‘Recording Advice’.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Anthobium
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found in leaf litter in or near to woodland, but may occur in other habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Has been recorded in most months of the year with a peak around April and May.
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 Anthobium atrocephalum. 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 Anthobium atrocephalum (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Anthobium atrocephalum
What is Anthobium atrocephalum?
Anthobium atrocephalum is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Anthobium atrocephalum?
is difficult – see ‘Recording Advice’.
Where is Anthobium atrocephalum found?
Habitat: Often found in leaf litter in or near to woodland, but may occur in other habitats.
When is Anthobium atrocephalum active?
Anthobium atrocephalum: seasonal activity - Has been recorded in most months of the year with a peak around April and May..