Bledius fortis
This record describes Bledius fortis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
the only one in the mandibularis group that is black with bright brownish red elytra. Type Locality: Galveston, TX
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Oxytelinae
- Tribe
- Blediini
- Genus
- Bledius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
TX Gulf coast
Geographic Range
locally common on TX coast (Galveston to Kleberg county) - Map , 127 spmns
Seasonal Activity
Apr-Aug
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Bledius fortis LeConte, 1877 (L). 'strong, powerful'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bledius fortis. 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 Bledius fortis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Bledius fortis
What is Bledius fortis?
Bledius fortis is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Bledius fortis?
the only one in the mandibularis group that is black with bright brownish red elytra.
Where is Bledius fortis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | TX Gulf coast |
| Range | locally common on TX coast (Galveston to Kleberg county) - Map , 127 spmns |
When is Bledius fortis active?
Bledius fortis: seasonal activity - Apr-Aug.