Brachinus lateralis
This record describes Brachinus lateralis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A southwestern species distinguished by dark knees against pale legs; elytra dark brownish with abrupt absence of pubescence on disc (center portion).
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
s.CA‒s.NV through w. Mex. to Nicaragua - 458 spmns examined
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Brachinus lateralis Dejean, 1831
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brachinus lateralis. 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 lateralis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachinus lateralis
What is Brachinus lateralis?
Brachinus lateralis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Brachinus lateralis?
A southwestern species distinguished by dark knees against pale legs; elytra dark brownish with abrupt absence of pubescence on disc (center portion).
Where is Brachinus lateralis found?
Range: s.CA‒s.NV through w. Mex. to Nicaragua - 458 spmns examined