Cantharis figurata
This record describes Cantharis figurata (species). Recorded family: Cantharidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 to 8 mm. This soldier beetle has an orange body, a partially black head and a dark but diffuse mark on its pronotum, sometimes reduced to a few spots. It also has dark femora which change to orange before the tibial joint. Rushy pasture, open damp woodland, waterside vegetation Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain No additional images available for this species.
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
Rushy pasture, open damp woodland, waterside vegetation
Seasonal Activity
Late May to end of July
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 Cantharis figurata. 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 figurata (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cantharis figurata
What is Cantharis figurata?
Cantharis figurata is a species in the family Cantharidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cantharis figurata?
6 to 8 mm. This soldier beetle has an orange body, a partially black head and a dark but diffuse mark on its pronotum, sometimes reduced to a few spots. It also has dark femora which change to orange before the tibial joint.
Where is Cantharis figurata found?
Habitat: Rushy pasture, open damp woodland, waterside vegetation
When is Cantharis figurata active?
Cantharis figurata: seasonal activity - Late May to end of July.