Enicmus brevicornis
This record describes Enicmus brevicornis (species). Recorded family: Latridiidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 1.5-2mm. Dull black, femora usually pitchy. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Ancient broadleaved woodlands, beneath the decaying bark of ash, beech, birch and sycamore; especially on sycamore affected with sooty bark disease (Cryptostroma corticale). Nationally notable. Widely scattered across England and Wales but scarce in the north. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Latridiidae (Minute Brown Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Latridiinae
- Genus
- Enicmus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Ancient broadleaved woodlands, beneath the decaying bark of ash, beech, birch and sycamore; especially on sycamore affected with sooty bark disease (Cryptostroma corticale).
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Nationally notable. Widely scattered across England and Wales but scarce in the north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Enicmus brevicornis. 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 Enicmus brevicornis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Enicmus brevicornis
What is Enicmus brevicornis?
Enicmus brevicornis is a species in the family Latridiidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Enicmus brevicornis?
1.5-2mm. Dull black, femora usually pitchy.
Where is Enicmus brevicornis found?
Habitat: Ancient broadleaved woodlands, beneath the decaying bark of ash, beech, birch and sycamore; especially on sycamore affected with sooty bark disease (Cryptostroma corticale).
When is Enicmus brevicornis active?
Enicmus brevicornis: seasonal activity - All year..