Leistus rufomarginatus
This record describes Leistus rufomarginatus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 8 to 10 mm. This is a distinctive blue-black or reddish-black species, with the legs, antennae and palps all being reddish brown and with a broad flange on the edge of the pronotum of the same colour. Under logs and stones, often in well wooded areas. It was first recorded in England in 1942, but has since spread northwards and now reaches as far as Scotland.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Leistus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Under logs and stones, often in well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It was first recorded in England in 1942, but has since spread northwards and now reaches as far as Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Leistus rufomarginatus. 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 rufomarginatus (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Leistus rufomarginatus
What is Leistus rufomarginatus?
Leistus rufomarginatus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Leistus rufomarginatus?
8 to 10 mm. This is a distinctive blue-black or reddish-black species, with the legs, antennae and palps all being reddish brown and with a broad flange on the edge of the pronotum of the same colour.
Where is Leistus rufomarginatus found?
Habitat: Under logs and stones, often in well wooded areas.
When is Leistus rufomarginatus active?
Leistus rufomarginatus: seasonal activity - All year round..