Atrecus affinis
This record describes Atrecus affinis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 7 mm. This is a distinctive Rove Beetle with a rather elongated body. The abdomen is a reddish brown, with short, dark blackish elytra. Usually found under bark, but sometimes in decaying wood. Sometimes congregate into small groups in spring. A locally common species found throughout Britain with records from the very north of Scotland. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Atrecus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found under bark, but sometimes in decaying wood.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Sometimes congregate into small groups in spring.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A locally common species found throughout Britain with records from the very north of Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Atrecus affinis. 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 Atrecus affinis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Atrecus affinis
What is Atrecus affinis?
Atrecus affinis is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Atrecus affinis?
7 mm. This is a distinctive Rove Beetle with a rather elongated body. The abdomen is a reddish brown, with short, dark blackish elytra.
Where is Atrecus affinis found?
Habitat: Usually found under bark, but sometimes in decaying wood.
When is Atrecus affinis active?
Atrecus affinis: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Atrecus affinis?
Sometimes congregate into small groups in spring.