Glischrochilus hortensis
This record describes Glischrochilus hortensis (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is one of three species of Glischrochilus beetles found in the UK. These are small beetles (around 5mm in length). G. Hortensis has black elytra with a total of four large orange blotches. Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the beetle's size in the comments box. Often found in woodland. It is usually found under tree bark or at sap runs, but also flies actively. All year round, but best time is April to October. Widespread but most common in the Midlands and eastern England.
Wikipedia reference for Glischrochilus hortensis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glischrochilus_hortensis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Nitidulidae
- Genus
- Glischrochilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found in woodland. It is usually found under tree bark or at sap runs, but also flies actively.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but best time is April to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on sap and ripe fruit.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but most common in the Midlands and eastern England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Glischrochilus hortensis. 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 Glischrochilus hortensis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Glischrochilus hortensis
What is Glischrochilus hortensis?
Glischrochilus hortensis is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Glischrochilus hortensis found?
Habitat: Often found in woodland. It is usually found under tree bark or at sap runs, but also flies actively.
When is Glischrochilus hortensis active?
Glischrochilus hortensis: seasonal activity - All year round, but best time is April to October..
What is the life cycle of a Glischrochilus hortensis?
Feeds on sap and ripe fruit.