Brachinus elongatulus
This record describes Brachinus elongatulus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
differs from very similar B. texanus, B. elongatulus in that it has a limited southwestern range; elytra distinctly broader, with more prominent costae, and bluish reflection (may not be visible at all angles, not grey-greenish); and usualy darker tarsi. Elytra bright blue, usually metallic - to separate from B. texanus tibiae and tarsi may or may not be infuscated.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Brachininae
- Genus
- Brachinus (Bombardier Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w. US (OR-CA-w.TX-w.OK) to Oaxaca, Mex. - Map , most US records from AZ - 3,810 spmns
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Brachinus elongatulus Chaudoir 1876
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brachinus elongatulus. 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 Brachinus elongatulus (6)
Photo credits: Contributed by Peter W. Messer; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachinus elongatulus
What is Brachinus elongatulus?
Brachinus elongatulus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Brachinus elongatulus?
differs from very similar B. texanus, B. elongatulus in that it has a limited southwestern range; elytra distinctly broader, with more prominent costae, and bluish reflection (may not be visible at all angles, not grey-greenish); and usualy darker tarsi. Elytra bright blue, usually metallic - to separate from B. texanus tibiae and tarsi may or may not be infuscated.
Where is Brachinus elongatulus found?
Range: w. US (OR-CA-w.TX-w.OK) to Oaxaca, Mex. - Map , most US records from AZ - 3,810 spmns