Leistus ferrugineus
This record describes Leistus ferrugineus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
About 8 mm long, this small colourful beetle is reddish brown or pale brown all over, with legs a shade paler than the body; it becomes darker coloured with age. It has a very rounded pronotum which is sharply sinuate to the rear corners, which have a 90 degree angle. Found in fields and gardens where it is reasonably dry, but can also be found in damper habitats such as woodland. Throughout the summer months. Nocturnal and often found on paths during the evening. Leistus beetles all have a bizarre 'cage' beneath their heads which is a specialist feature to help them catch their prey - Springtails Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales, less common in Scotland. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Nebriinae
- Tribe
- Nebriini
- Genus
- Leistus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in fields and gardens where it is reasonably dry, but can also be found in damper habitats such as woodland.
Seasonal Activity
Throughout the summer months. Nocturnal and often found on paths during the evening.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Leistus
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales, less common in Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Leistus ferrugineus. 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 Leistus ferrugineus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Leistus ferrugineus
What is Leistus ferrugineus?
Leistus ferrugineus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Leistus ferrugineus found?
Habitat: Found in fields and gardens where it is reasonably dry, but can also be found in damper habitats such as woodland.
When is Leistus ferrugineus active?
Leistus ferrugineus: seasonal activity - Throughout the summer months. Nocturnal and often found on paths during the evening..
What is the life cycle of a Leistus ferrugineus?
Leistus