Harpalus plenalis
This record describes Harpalus plenalis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
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
Habitat
Lowlands and mountain, hills, pastures, vacant lots, roadsides, sand pits, and gravel pits. Open ground; dry, usually sandy soil covered with sparse vegetation
Geographic Range
CAN: ON, QC, NB, NS, PE, NF, LB; USA: ME, NH, VT
Seasonal Activity
III‒X
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Harpalus plenalis Casey 1914
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Harpalus plenalis. 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 plenalis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ludovic L.; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Harpalus plenalis
How big is Harpalus plenalis?
6.5‒8.6 mm
Where is Harpalus plenalis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Lowlands and mountain, hills, pastures, vacant lots, roadsides, sand pits, and gravel pits. Open ground; dry, usually sandy soil covered with sparse vegetation |
| Range | CAN: ON, QC, NB, NS, PE, NF, LB; USA: ME, NH, VT |
When is Harpalus plenalis active?
Harpalus plenalis: seasonal activity - III‒X.