Cantharis nigra
This record describes Cantharis nigra (species). Recorded family: Cantharidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Very similar to the red pronotum variety of Cantharis flavilabris , but in C. nigra the scutellum is red (black scutellum in the red pronotum variety of C. flavilabris ) The red pronotum variety of Cantharis flavilabris (see above). Photographs required showing clearly the pronotum and scutellum. It appears to be widespread in England and Wales, but true status is difficult to determine as the name Cantharis nigra was previously given to a totally different species. 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
Hay meadows, and damper grassland.
Seasonal Activity
Late May to late July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It appears to be widespread in England and Wales, but true status is difficult to determine as the name
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cantharis nigra. 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 nigra (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cantharis nigra
What is Cantharis nigra?
Cantharis nigra is a species in the family Cantharidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cantharis nigra found?
Habitat: Hay meadows, and damper grassland.
When is Cantharis nigra active?
Cantharis nigra: seasonal activity - Late May to late July..