Dromius quadrimaculatus
This record describes Dromius quadrimaculatus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 6 mm. This beetle has a blackish head, but a shiny red pronotum. The legs and antennae are pale straw coloured. The dark elytra show two large pale patches on each and are sharply truncate leaving the terminal abdominal segment exposed. Generally associated with deciduous trees and also pine in woodland, wooded pasture and parkland, gardens etc. They fly well and may be found in almost any situation. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales, rather more local elsewhere in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Dromius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Generally associated with deciduous trees and also pine in woodland, wooded pasture and parkland, gardens etc. They fly well and may be found in almost any situation.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales, rather more local elsewhere in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dromius quadrimaculatus. 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 quadrimaculatus (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dromius quadrimaculatus
What is Dromius quadrimaculatus?
Dromius quadrimaculatus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Dromius quadrimaculatus?
5 to 6 mm. This beetle has a blackish head, but a shiny red pronotum. The legs and antennae are pale straw coloured. The dark elytra show two large pale patches on each and are sharply truncate leaving the terminal abdominal segment exposed.
Where is Dromius quadrimaculatus found?
Habitat: Generally associated with deciduous trees and also pine in woodland, wooded pasture and parkland, gardens etc. They fly well and may be found in almost any situation.
When is Dromius quadrimaculatus active?
Dromius quadrimaculatus: seasonal activity - All year round..