Corticarina minuta
This record describes Corticarina minuta (species). Recorded family: Latridiidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A tiny beetle measuring only about 1.5 mm. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. May be found in moss, leaf litter, flood debris etc. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Latridiidae (Minute Brown Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Corticariinae
- Genus
- Corticarina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
May be found in moss, leaf litter, flood debris etc.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Corticarina minuta. 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 Corticarina minuta (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Corticarina minuta
What is Corticarina minuta?
Corticarina minuta is a species in the family Latridiidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Corticarina minuta found?
Habitat: May be found in moss, leaf litter, flood debris etc.
When is Corticarina minuta active?
Corticarina minuta: seasonal activity - All year round..