Lesser Stag Beetle
Dorcus parallelipipedus
This record describes Dorcus parallelipipedus (species). Recorded family: Lucanidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is the smaller cousin of the well known Stag Beetle. Though smaller, it is still a very large beetle but it doesn't have such enlarged mandibles as the male Stag Beetle. It is found in woodland and sometimes in gardens, especially where there are large trees or orchards. The adult is most often seen in summer when it flies to disperse. Its larvae feed on rotting timber, especially Ash, Beech and Apple. Fairly common and widespread in the southern half of England and in Wales.
Wikipedia reference for Dorcus parallelipipedus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dorcus_parallelipipedus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Lucanidae
- Genus
- Dorcus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is found in woodland and sometimes in gardens, especially where there are large trees or orchards.
Seasonal Activity
The adult is most often seen in summer when it flies to disperse.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Its larvae feed on rotting timber, especially Ash, Beech and Apple.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread in the southern half of England and in Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dorcus parallelipipedus. 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 Lesser Stag Beetle (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Lesser Stag Beetle
What is Lesser Stag Beetle?
Lesser Stag Beetle (Dorcus parallelipipedus) is a species in the family Lucanidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Lesser Stag Beetle found?
Habitat: It is found in woodland and sometimes in gardens, especially where there are large trees or orchards.
When is Lesser Stag Beetle active?
Lesser Stag Beetle: seasonal activity - The adult is most often seen in summer when it flies to disperse..
What is the life cycle of a Lesser Stag Beetle?
Its larvae feed on rotting timber, especially Ash, Beech and Apple.