Harpalus gravis
This record describes Harpalus gravis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Brownish mid-sized shiny Harpalus showing squarish pronotum with sharp hind angles - PWMesser
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Harpalini
- Genus
- Harpalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e US (NY-FL to OK-TX) - Map , Coastal Plain and Piedmont Plateau , mostly s. Great Plains & se US
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Harpalus gravis LeConte 1858
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Harpalus gravis. 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 Harpalus gravis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Harpalus gravis
What is Harpalus gravis?
Harpalus gravis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Harpalus gravis?
Brownish mid-sized shiny Harpalus showing squarish pronotum with sharp hind angles - PWMesser
Where is Harpalus gravis found?
Range: e US (NY-FL to OK-TX) - Map , Coastal Plain and Piedmont Plateau , mostly s. Great Plains & se US