Elaphrus cupreus
This record describes Elaphrus cupreus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 8 or 9 mm. Bronze with conspicuous purple ocellate depressions on the elytra. Antennae are black, tibiae are brown and the rest of the legs are black but often with metallic, usually bluish, reflections. The head is wider than the quadrate pronotum. E. riparius is similar though a little smaller and more olive green. Marshland and on bare mud at the side of fresh water. All year round, but most easily seen in hot weather.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Elaphrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Marshland and on bare mud at the side of fresh water.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but most easily seen in hot weather.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Quite common and widespread in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Elaphrus cupreus. 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 Elaphrus cupreus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Elaphrus cupreus
What is Elaphrus cupreus?
Elaphrus cupreus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Elaphrus cupreus?
8 or 9 mm. Bronze with conspicuous purple ocellate depressions on the elytra. Antennae are black, tibiae are brown and the rest of the legs are black but often with metallic, usually bluish, reflections. The head is wider than the quadrate pronotum.
Where is Elaphrus cupreus found?
Habitat: Marshland and on bare mud at the side of fresh water.
When is Elaphrus cupreus active?
Elaphrus cupreus: seasonal activity - All year round, but most easily seen in hot weather..