Common Sun Beetle
Amara aenea
This record describes Amara aenea (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length: 6.5 - 9mm. One of many very similar Amara species, this is one of the most common with an obvious shiny brass/copper appearance. Its legs have black femora and brown tibiae. The scutellary pore is absent and it has fine striae. The antennae are black except for three pale basal segments. Whilst beetles of the Amara genus are distinctive, to identify the species requires close examination with a good lens or microscope. It is found in dry habitats, including gardens, wasteland and grassland. It likes to sun itself and is often seen on bare ground. Most often seen between spring and summer This ground beetle feeds on the developing seeds of grasses It is widespread and very common in Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Amara aenea: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amara_aenea.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Zabrini
- Genus
- Amara
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is found in dry habitats, including gardens, wasteland and grassland. It likes to sun itself and is often seen on bare ground.
Seasonal Activity
Most often seen between spring and summer
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This ground beetle feeds on the developing seeds of grasses
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is widespread and very common in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Amara aenea. 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 Common Sun Beetle (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Common Sun Beetle
What is Common Sun Beetle?
Common Sun Beetle (Amara aenea) is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Common Sun Beetle?
6.5 - 9mm. One of many very similar
Where is Common Sun Beetle found?
Habitat: It is found in dry habitats, including gardens, wasteland and grassland. It likes to sun itself and is often seen on bare ground.
When is Common Sun Beetle active?
Common Sun Beetle: seasonal activity - Most often seen between spring and summer.
What is the life cycle of a Common Sun Beetle?
This ground beetle feeds on the developing seeds of grasses