Kateretes pusillus
This record describes Kateretes pusillus (species). Recorded family: Kateretidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a small, Soft-winged Flower Beetle and measures around 2.5mm. Usually a very dark, almost blackish brown with patches of orange but the amounts of each colour may vary considerably. Prefers damp conditions and is often found on sedges. Local but widespread in England and Wales. Not well recorded elsewhere in Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Kateretes pusillus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kateretes_pusillus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Kateretidae (Short-winged Flower Beetles)
- Genus
- Kateretes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Prefers damp conditions and is often found on sedges.
Seasonal Activity
March to July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Local but widespread in England and Wales. Not well recorded elsewhere in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Kateretes pusillus. 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 Kateretes pusillus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Kateretes pusillus
What is Kateretes pusillus?
Kateretes pusillus is a species in the family Kateretidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Kateretes pusillus found?
Habitat: Prefers damp conditions and is often found on sedges.
When is Kateretes pusillus active?
Kateretes pusillus: seasonal activity - March to July..