Bledius zophus
This record describes Bledius zophus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum strongly constricted in the basal third, with rectangular hind angles. Elytral pubescence medially directed towards midlateral side. Overall color dark reddish brown to black to metallic blue. Labrum deeply emarginate, bidentate mandibles. Member of the annularis group.
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
On sandy river & stream banks
Geographic Range
W. North America from YT south to Mendocino Co., CA.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Bledius zophus (Herman,1983)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bledius zophus. 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 zophus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh
Frequently Asked Questions About Bledius zophus
What is Bledius zophus?
Bledius zophus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Bledius zophus?
4.1-5.5 mm
How do you identify Bledius zophus?
Pronotum strongly constricted in the basal third, with rectangular hind angles. Elytral pubescence medially directed towards midlateral side. Overall color dark reddish brown to black to metallic blue. Labrum deeply emarginate, bidentate mandibles.
Where is Bledius zophus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | On sandy river & stream banks |
| Range | W. North America from YT south to Mendocino Co., CA. |