Brachypterus glaber
This record describes Brachypterus glaber (species). Recorded family: Kateretidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very small, blackish beetle (about 2 mm). Brachypterus urticae is equally common and very similar but has pale legs. Found on Common Nettle, especially when flowering. It may also turn up occasionally on umbel flowers. Widespread and frequent in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Kateretidae
- Genus
- Brachypterus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on Common Nettle, especially when flowering. It may also turn up occasionally on umbel flowers.
Seasonal Activity
May to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Brachypterus glaber. 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 Brachypterus glaber (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachypterus glaber
What is Brachypterus glaber?
Brachypterus glaber is a species in the family Kateretidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Brachypterus glaber found?
Habitat: Found on Common Nettle, especially when flowering. It may also turn up occasionally on umbel flowers.
When is Brachypterus glaber active?
Brachypterus glaber: seasonal activity - May to August..