Leistus spinibarbis
This record describes Leistus spinibarbis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
8 - 10mm. A handsome ground beetle, with dark blue elytra, though the shade can vary in different light conditions. Very similar to L. fulvibarbis and best separated by the pronotum characters. In L. spinibarbis the flattened and punctured side margins are much wider than in L. fulvibarbis and in L. fulvibarbis the pronotum is more strongly contracted towards the base and there is a distinct straight portion immediately in front of the base, while in L. spinibarbis the curve continues almost to the base. (see diagram) There is also fine wrinkling on the head of L. spinibarbis whereas L. fulvibarbis lacks this. http://johnwalters.co.uk/pdfs/4%20Leistus%20(Telfer%20and%20Walters%202010).pdf Images will need to show the relevant identification features. Commonly found under logs or loose bark and in a variety of habitats, including in gardens amongst overgrown vegetation. All year round but best in spring and summer. Common and widespread in England and Wales.
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
Commonly found under logs or loose bark and in a variety of habitats, including in gardens amongst overgrown vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
All year round but best in spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Very fast moving when disturbed.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Leistus spinibarbis. 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 spinibarbis (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Leistus spinibarbis
What is Leistus spinibarbis?
Leistus spinibarbis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Leistus spinibarbis found?
Habitat: Commonly found under logs or loose bark and in a variety of habitats, including in gardens amongst overgrown vegetation.
When is Leistus spinibarbis active?
Leistus spinibarbis: seasonal activity - All year round but best in spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Leistus spinibarbis?
Very fast moving when disturbed.