Bradycellus verbasci
This record describes Bradycellus verbasci (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4.5 to 5mm. Pale red brown with the elytra darker towards the apex. Legs and antennae are all pale. The pronotum sides are sinuate with obtuse but sharp hind corners. The side borders on the pronotum extend onto the hind margin which is sharply angled forward on both sides. Bradycellus sharpi is very similar and also common and widespread. This species is a darker red-brown, the side borders on the pronotum barely extend onto the base which is only slightly angled forwards on each side. In open, usually well-drained habitats such as arable fields and waste ground. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Bradycellus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In open, usually well-drained habitats such as arable fields and waste ground.
Seasonal Activity
All year
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bradycellus verbasci. 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 verbasci (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Bradycellus verbasci
What is Bradycellus verbasci?
Bradycellus verbasci is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Bradycellus verbasci?
4.5 to 5mm. Pale red brown with the elytra darker towards the apex. Legs and antennae are all pale. The pronotum sides are sinuate with obtuse but sharp hind corners. The side borders on the pronotum extend onto the hind margin which is sharply angled forward on both sides.
Where is Bradycellus verbasci found?
Habitat: In open, usually well-drained habitats such as arable fields and waste ground.
When is Bradycellus verbasci active?
Bradycellus verbasci: seasonal activity - All year.