Harpalus rubripes
This record describes Harpalus rubripes (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A medium-sized (8.5 to 12 mm) ground beetle which may be green or black in colour. Often found on dry or gravelly ground with sparse vegetation such as post industrial sites. March to September, peaking from April to June. Widespread but local in England and Wales.
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
Often found on dry or gravelly ground with sparse vegetation such as post industrial sites.
Seasonal Activity
March to September, peaking from April to June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Harpalus rubripes. 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 rubripes (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Harpalus rubripes
What is Harpalus rubripes?
Harpalus rubripes is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Harpalus rubripes found?
Habitat: Often found on dry or gravelly ground with sparse vegetation such as post industrial sites.
When is Harpalus rubripes active?
Harpalus rubripes: seasonal activity - March to September, peaking from April to June..