Carabus problematicus
This record describes Carabus problematicus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Up to 30mm. This species has ridges and dimples on its elytra and also has a pronotum that is barely transverse and with contracted sides. C. violaceus has smoother elytra that are more elongate and also has a more transverse pronotum. Although predominantly a woodland and heathland species, it can occasionally be found in gardens and is a useful natural pest controller. They are nocturnal hunters, hiding under logs and stones during the day. Although widespread throughout Britain, C. problematicus is a local species and is uncommon in many areas.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Carabus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Although predominantly a woodland and heathland species, it can occasionally be found in gardens and is a useful natural pest controller.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly seen in summer months
Diet and Behavior
Life History
They are nocturnal hunters, hiding under logs and stones during the day.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Although widespread throughout Britain,
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Carabus problematicus. 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 Carabus problematicus (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Carabus problematicus
What is Carabus problematicus?
Carabus problematicus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Carabus problematicus found?
Habitat: Although predominantly a woodland and heathland species, it can occasionally be found in gardens and is a useful natural pest controller.
When is Carabus problematicus active?
Carabus problematicus: seasonal activity - Mainly seen in summer months.
What is the life cycle of a Carabus problematicus?
They are nocturnal hunters, hiding under logs and stones during the day.