Bembidion lunulatum
This record describes Bembidion lunulatum (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Small (3.5-4mm) black ground beetle, usually with pale sub-apical elytral spots though these can be faint or obscure. It has a well-rounded pronotum which contracts sharply at its base, giving the beetle a distinct 'waist'. It has dark brown legs and a dark base to its antennae. It has 6 punctuated striae plus a short scutellary stria. Bembidion biguttatum is similar in size and also has pale sub-apical spots, but it has a rounded pronotum which is strongly sinuate at the base. It also has a pale basal antennal segment - which is dark brown in B. lunulatum . Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is generally 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 key identifying characters. Usually found near freshwater on mud and among vegetation. It is found across southern England but becomes increasingly localised further north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Bembidion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found near freshwater on mud and among vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly seen in spring and summer
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is found across southern England but becomes increasingly localised further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bembidion lunulatum. 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 lunulatum (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Bembidion lunulatum
What is Bembidion lunulatum?
Bembidion lunulatum is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Bembidion lunulatum?
and also has pale sub-apical spots, but it has a rounded pronotum which is strongly sinuate at the base. It also has a pale basal antennal segment - which is dark brown in
Where is Bembidion lunulatum found?
Habitat: Usually found near freshwater on mud and among vegetation.
When is Bembidion lunulatum active?
Bembidion lunulatum: seasonal activity - Mainly seen in spring and summer.