Lesteva longoelytrata
This record describes Lesteva longoelytrata (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

As is typical of the rove beetles the elytra on extend partway across its abdomen, in this case about two thirds. It also has a characteristic curvy shape to its pronotum. This beetle lives around water and in splashed habitats. All year round peaking in April and May. It is recognised as a useful predator of pests on Oilseed Rape. Fairly frequent and widespread throughout Britain, especially well recorded in central and northern England.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Lesteva
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
This beetle lives around water and in splashed habitats.
Seasonal Activity
All year round peaking in April and May.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is recognised as a useful predator of pests on Oilseed Rape.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread throughout Britain, especially well recorded in central and northern England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lesteva longoelytrata. 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 Lesteva longoelytrata (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Lesteva longoelytrata
What is Lesteva longoelytrata?
Lesteva longoelytrata is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Lesteva longoelytrata found?
Habitat: This beetle lives around water and in splashed habitats.
When is Lesteva longoelytrata active?
Lesteva longoelytrata: seasonal activity - All year round peaking in April and May..
What is the life cycle of a Lesteva longoelytrata?
It is recognised as a useful predator of pests on Oilseed Rape.
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