Bembidion contractum
This record describes Bembidion contractum (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Trechinae
- Tribe
- Bembidiini
- Genus
- Bembidion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
sea beaches, neighbouring lagoons/salt marshes/ponds, usually on sandy clayish soils with thin algal crust
Geographic Range
Atlantic Coast (NF‒FL‒LA)
Seasonal Activity
spring breeder
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Bembidion contractum Say 1823
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bembidion contractum. 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 Bembidion contractum (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Bembidion contractum
How big is Bembidion contractum?
4.6‒5.4 mm
Where is Bembidion contractum found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | sea beaches, neighbouring lagoons/salt marshes/ponds, usually on sandy clayish soils with thin algal crust |
| Range | Atlantic Coast (NF‒FL‒LA) |
When is Bembidion contractum active?
Bembidion contractum: seasonal activity - spring breeder.