Cryptocephalus aureolus
This record describes Cryptocephalus aureolus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 to 8 mm. One of several similar species of metallic green beetles which have a short, cylindrical robust body and head hidden under the front edge of pronotum. Cryptocephalus hypochaeridis looks very similar but has is more blue-green in colour. Often on low branches of Hazel, Oak, Hawthorn, Willow and Birch, but also on flowers. Widespread and fairly frequent at least in the southern half of Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Cryptocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often on low branches of Hazel, Oak, Hawthorn, Willow and Birch, but also on flowers.
Seasonal Activity
Best time is late spring and summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent at least in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptocephalus aureolus. 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 Cryptocephalus aureolus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptocephalus aureolus
What is Cryptocephalus aureolus?
Cryptocephalus aureolus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cryptocephalus aureolus?
6 to 8 mm. One of several similar species of metallic green beetles which have a short, cylindrical robust body and head hidden under the front edge of pronotum.
Where is Cryptocephalus aureolus found?
Habitat: Often on low branches of Hazel, Oak, Hawthorn, Willow and Birch, but also on flowers.
When is Cryptocephalus aureolus active?
Cryptocephalus aureolus: seasonal activity - Best time is late spring and summer..