ColeopteraStaphylinidae – Rove Beetles

Leptusa carolinensis

This record describes Leptusa carolinensis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Leptusa carolinensis - Leptusa carolinensis
Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by pierrickb

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Coleoptera (Beetles)
Suborder
Polyphaga
Superfamily
Staphylinoidea
Family
Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
Subfamily
Aleocharinae
Tribe
Homalotini
Genus
Leptusa

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

The species seems to be associated with subcortical habitats and other tree-related habitats.

Geographic Range

Eastern North America with records in NC, TN, and further north ranging from ON to NS.

Seasonal Activity

V–IX (mostly in May)

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: Leptusa carolinensis Pace, 1989

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Leptusa carolinensis. 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.

Explore Coleoptera families and species →

Photos of Leptusa carolinensis (3)

Leptusa carolinensis - photo 1
Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by pierrickb
Leptusa carolinensis - photo 2
Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by pierrickb
Leptusa carolinensis - photo 3
Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by pierrickb

Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by pierrickb

Frequently Asked Questions About Leptusa carolinensis

How big is Leptusa carolinensis?

2.0-2.6 mm

Where is Leptusa carolinensis found?
FeatureDetails
HabitatThe species seems to be associated with subcortical habitats and other tree-related habitats.
RangeEastern North America with records in NC, TN, and further north ranging from ON to NS.
When is Leptusa carolinensis active?

Leptusa carolinensis: seasonal activity - V–IX (mostly in May).

How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by pierrickb. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.