Conopalpus testaceus
This record describes Conopalpus testaceus (species). Recorded family: Melandryidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a small beetle (around 9 mm in length) with two colour forms. The standard form is a fairly uniform reddish-brown colour whilst the other form has orange pronotum and legs and dark elytra. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Areas of broad-leaved woodland and other well wooded areas, hedgerows utilising several species of trees, but perhaps favouring oak. Adults may visit wild flowers, particularly umbellifers. Widespread but sometimes local in England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Melandryidae
- Genus
- Conopalpus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Areas of broad-leaved woodland and other well wooded areas, hedgerows utilising several species of trees, but perhaps favouring oak. Adults may visit wild flowers, particularly umbellifers.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time is June and July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but sometimes local in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Conopalpus testaceus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Conopalpus testaceus
What is Conopalpus testaceus?
Conopalpus testaceus is a species in the family Melandryidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Conopalpus testaceus found?
Habitat: Areas of broad-leaved woodland and other well wooded areas, hedgerows utilising several species of trees, but perhaps favouring oak. Adults may visit wild flowers, particularly umbellifers.
When is Conopalpus testaceus active?
Conopalpus testaceus: seasonal activity - Peak time is June and July..