Acrossus depressus
This record describes Acrossus depressus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This dung beetle is about 6 mm long and can be very variable in colour, ranging from specimens with rust red elytra and black thorax, to all black forms. The top of the pronotum is evenly covered with fine punctures. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required even for aggregate records, 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 herbivore dung, but flies well and is sometimes attracted to light. Best time to see it is summer and autumn, with a peak around August. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain becoming more frequent north of the Thames. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Scarabaeidae
- Genus
- Acrossus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found in herbivore dung, but flies well and is sometimes attracted to light.
Seasonal Activity
Best time to see it is summer and autumn, with a peak around August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain becoming more frequent north of the Thames.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Acrossus depressus. 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 Acrossus depressus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Acrossus depressus
What is Acrossus depressus?
Acrossus depressus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Acrossus depressus found?
Habitat: Often found in herbivore dung, but flies well and is sometimes attracted to light.
When is Acrossus depressus active?
Acrossus depressus: seasonal activity - Best time to see it is summer and autumn, with a peak around August..