Atholus duodecimstriatus
This record describes Atholus duodecimstriatus (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
4.5-5mm. A black glossy species with the top of the mesosternum relatively straight or only weakly curved. Legs and antennae are dark red-brown. The pattern of stria on the elytra is distinctive. Found in a variety of habitats including dung and rotten fungi, also found in grass tussocks in the winter. Widespread and fairly frequent especially in southern Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Histeridae
- Genus
- Atholus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in a variety of habitats including dung and rotten fungi, also found in grass tussocks in the winter.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent especially in southern Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Atholus duodecimstriatus. 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 Atholus duodecimstriatus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Atholus duodecimstriatus
What is Atholus duodecimstriatus?
Atholus duodecimstriatus is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Atholus duodecimstriatus found?
Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats including dung and rotten fungi, also found in grass tussocks in the winter.
When is Atholus duodecimstriatus active?
Atholus duodecimstriatus: seasonal activity - All year round..