Cantharis cryptica
This record describes Cantharis cryptica (species). Recorded family: Cantharidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
7 to 8.5 mm. An orange/brown beetle with black rings above the 'knees' and all-yellow palps. The elytra have a mixture of flat and erect hairs. Cantharis pallida is very similar but has black tips to the palps and no flat hairs on the elytra (only erect hairs). A photo showing the all-yellow/orange palps is required and/or the hairs on the elytra, together with a photo of the beetle as a whole. Various habitats. It may be found in long grass, on umbel flowers, bushes and trees. Widespread throughout England, Wales, more local in Scotland.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Cantharidae
- Genus
- Cantharis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats. It may be found in long grass, on umbel flowers, bushes and trees.
Seasonal Activity
May to August peaking in July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread throughout England, Wales, more local in Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cantharis cryptica. 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 Cantharis cryptica (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cantharis cryptica
What is Cantharis cryptica?
Cantharis cryptica is a species in the family Cantharidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cantharis cryptica found?
Habitat: Various habitats. It may be found in long grass, on umbel flowers, bushes and trees.
When is Cantharis cryptica active?
Cantharis cryptica: seasonal activity - May to August peaking in July..