Platynus livens
This record describes Platynus livens (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
7-10mm. Dark (black or dark brown) but often with two dull red spots between the eyes. Antennae and legs are brown. Along with Agonum species it has a toothed mentum (the plate beneath the head). It has a transverse groove at the rear of the head. Similar to Agonum thoreyi but distinguished by the transverse groove at the rear of the head. 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. Most active March to June but can be found all year. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Platynus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Lowland marsh, sometimes under bark.
Seasonal Activity
Most active March to June but can be found all year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Uncommon, very localised.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platynus livens. 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 Platynus livens (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platynus livens
What is Platynus livens?
Platynus livens is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Platynus livens found?
Habitat: Lowland marsh, sometimes under bark.
When is Platynus livens active?
Platynus livens: seasonal activity - Most active March to June but can be found all year..