Demetrias atricapillus
This record describes Demetrias atricapillus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length: 4.5 to 5.5 mm. Black head, red/orange pronotum and straw-coloured elytra with a dark central stripe that broadens apically. The head is punctured and hairy behind the eyes. Other Demetrias species have more marked elytra. The bi-lobed tarsal segment distinguishes from similar Paradromius linearis. Found in tussocky grassland and agricultural fields. Most British records seem to come from south of a line between Scarborough in Yorkshire and the Severn Estuary. In this area it is quite common. It appears to be more coastal in the west and in Wales. https://markgtelfer.co.uk/files/pdfs/15%20dromius%20demetrias%20(telfer%20and%20walters%202014)%20.pdf
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Demetrias
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in tussocky grassland and agricultural fields.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds mainly on aphids.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Most British records seem to come from south of a line between Scarborough in Yorkshire and the Severn Estuary. In this area it is quite common. It appears to be more coastal in the west and in Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Demetrias atricapillus. 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 Demetrias atricapillus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Demetrias atricapillus
What is Demetrias atricapillus?
Demetrias atricapillus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Demetrias atricapillus?
4.5 to 5.5 mm. Black head, red/orange pronotum and straw-coloured elytra with a dark central stripe that broadens apically. The head is punctured and hairy behind the eyes.
Where is Demetrias atricapillus found?
Habitat: Found in tussocky grassland and agricultural fields.
When is Demetrias atricapillus active?
Demetrias atricapillus: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Demetrias atricapillus?
Feeds mainly on aphids.