Clitostethus arcuatus
This record describes Clitostethus arcuatus (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A tiny ladybird with a length of only 1.2 to 1.5 mm. It is dark brown with a pale cream horseshoe-shaped mark in the centre of the elytra. The legs are creamy brown in colour. Although the species is quite distinctive, it is very uncommon in our area so detailed photographic evidence is required. Note the size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed. Its host plant is Ivy and it can be found by sweeping Ivy clad trees and fences etc. Usually found from late spring to autumn. It overwinters in bark crevices and under bark. It appears to be widespread in the southern half of Britain, but is probably grossly under recorded due to its small size. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scymninae
- Tribe
- Scymnini
- Genus
- Clitostethus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Its host plant is Ivy and it can be found by sweeping Ivy clad trees and fences etc.
Seasonal Activity
Usually found from late spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It overwinters in bark crevices and under bark.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It appears to be widespread in the southern half of Britain, but is probably grossly under recorded due to its small size.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Clitostethus arcuatus. 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 Clitostethus arcuatus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Clitostethus arcuatus
What is Clitostethus arcuatus?
Clitostethus arcuatus is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Clitostethus arcuatus?
of only 1.2 to 1.5 mm. It is dark brown with a pale cream horseshoe-shaped mark in the centre of the elytra. The legs are creamy brown in colour.
Where is Clitostethus arcuatus found?
Habitat: Its host plant is Ivy and it can be found by sweeping Ivy clad trees and fences etc.
When is Clitostethus arcuatus active?
Clitostethus arcuatus: seasonal activity - Usually found from late spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Clitostethus arcuatus?
It overwinters in bark crevices and under bark.