Brachinus phaeocerus
This record describes Brachinus phaeocerus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
femora orange, tibiae and tarsi infuscated to black; elytra bright blue with black sutural margin; antennal articles 3-11 usually dark. Type Locality: Texas
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
IA-CO to AZ-c.TX / nc.Mex. - Map - 213 spmns
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Brachinus phaeocerus Chaudoir 1868
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brachinus phaeocerus. 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 phaeocerus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachinus phaeocerus
What is Brachinus phaeocerus?
Brachinus phaeocerus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Brachinus phaeocerus?
7.2-8.1 mm
How do you identify Brachinus phaeocerus?
femora orange, tibiae and tarsi infuscated to black; elytra bright blue with black sutural margin; antennal articles 3-11 usually dark.
Where is Brachinus phaeocerus found?
Range: IA-CO to AZ-c.TX / nc.Mex. - Map - 213 spmns