Chlaenius vestitus
This record describes Chlaenius vestitus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Length 8.5 to 11mm. A metallic green beetle with orangey-yellow patches at the ends of the elytra. Usually found in marshes, reedbeds and on the edges of ponds and lakes. Widespread and fairly frequent in the southern half of Britain No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Chlaenius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found in marshes, reedbeds and on the edges of ponds and lakes.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time is May to September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in the southern half of Britain
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Chlaenius vestitus. 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 Chlaenius vestitus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Chlaenius vestitus
What is Chlaenius vestitus?
Chlaenius vestitus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Chlaenius vestitus?
8.5 to 11mm. A metallic green beetle with orangey-yellow patches at the ends of the elytra.
Where is Chlaenius vestitus found?
Habitat: Usually found in marshes, reedbeds and on the edges of ponds and lakes.
When is Chlaenius vestitus active?
Chlaenius vestitus: seasonal activity - Peak time is May to September..
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