Cordylepherus viridis
This record describes Cordylepherus viridis (species). Recorded family: Melyridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar in appearance to the more common Malachius bipustulatus, but can be separated with detailed examination. Cordylepherus viridis is slightly smaller and bluer than M. bipustulatus. Fairly frequent in England south of The Wash, much scarcer further north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Melyridae
- Genus
- Cordylepherus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Flower meadows, on flowers and grasses.
Seasonal Activity
Summer
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent in England south of The Wash, much scarcer further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cordylepherus viridis. 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 Cordylepherus viridis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cordylepherus viridis
What is Cordylepherus viridis?
Cordylepherus viridis is a species in the family Melyridae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cordylepherus viridis found?
Habitat: Flower meadows, on flowers and grasses.
When is Cordylepherus viridis active?
Cordylepherus viridis: seasonal activity - Summer.