Bradycellus harpalinus
This record describes Bradycellus harpalinus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Additional details | 4-5mm. Variable but generally reddish brown with pale legs and antennae, often with suture and elytral margins paler brown. |
| Pronotum | Pronotum has rounded hind angles and non-sinuate sides. |
| Eyes | Eyes are large and protrude. The scutellary striae are long, nearly 2x the width of the 2nd elytral interval. Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used. Note the beetle's size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed. It is found in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, grasslands and woodland. It is widely distributed in Britain and often abundant. No additional images available for this species. |
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Harpalini
- Genus
- Bradycellus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is found in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, grasslands and woodland.
Seasonal Activity
Peak from May to September
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is widely distributed in Britain and often abundant.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bradycellus harpalinus. 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 Bradycellus harpalinus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Bradycellus harpalinus
What is Bradycellus harpalinus?
Bradycellus harpalinus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Bradycellus harpalinus found?
Habitat: It is found in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, grasslands and woodland.
When is Bradycellus harpalinus active?
Bradycellus harpalinus: seasonal activity - Peak from May to September.
FROM LOOKING IT UP TO GETTING TO KNOW IT
Make sense of the bugs at home.50 household bug profiles for you. Photos, coloring, and activities for curious kids.


