Cercyon obsoletus
This record describes Cercyon obsoletus (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A beetle with dark reddish brown elytra and blacker head and pronotum. Images contained in a red box denote that they are only likely to be this species and are typical of the species but have not been examined in detail to be certain of identity Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Hydrophilidae
- Genus
- Cercyon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In cattle dung.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with cattle dung.
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 Cercyon obsoletus. 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 Cercyon obsoletus (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cercyon obsoletus
What is Cercyon obsoletus?
Cercyon obsoletus is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cercyon obsoletus found?
Habitat: In cattle dung.
When is Cercyon obsoletus active?
Cercyon obsoletus: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Cercyon obsoletus?
Associated with cattle dung.