Dromius piceus
This record describes Dromius piceus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Flat uniformly brown elytra; lateral margins of pronotum translucent; claws denticulate
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Lebiini
- Genus
- Dromius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
under bark and forest debris; more or less arboreal ( 3 )
Geographic Range
transcontinental (Canada to Mexico)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Dromius piceus Dejean 1831
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dromius piceus. 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 Dromius piceus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , Mike Quinn , Peter Messer , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Dromius piceus
What is Dromius piceus?
Dromius piceus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Dromius piceus?
6.3‒7.8 mm
How do you identify Dromius piceus?
Flat uniformly brown elytra; lateral margins of pronotum translucent; claws denticulate
Where is Dromius piceus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | under bark and forest debris; more or less arboreal ( 3 ) |
| Range | transcontinental (Canada to Mexico) |