Longitarsus dorsalis
This record describes Longitarsus dorsalis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This small beetle (2 to 3 mm) has a black head and an brown pronotum. The dark elytra have broad yellow margins. Often found on post-industrial sites where Ragwort and Groundsel is plentiful. All year round, but perhaps more common in the cooler months than in the summer. Feeds on the roots and leaves of various plants especially Groundsel and Ragwort. Most records come from south of a line between the Severn and the Humber. It is quite a local species, but seems to be increasing in numbers.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Longitarsus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found on post-industrial sites where Ragwort and Groundsel is plentiful.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but perhaps more common in the cooler months than in the summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on the roots and leaves of various plants especially Groundsel and Ragwort.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Most records come from south of a line between the Severn and the Humber. It is quite a local species, but seems to be increasing in numbers.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Longitarsus dorsalis. 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 Longitarsus dorsalis (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Longitarsus dorsalis
What is Longitarsus dorsalis?
Longitarsus dorsalis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Longitarsus dorsalis found?
Habitat: Often found on post-industrial sites where Ragwort and Groundsel is plentiful.
When is Longitarsus dorsalis active?
Longitarsus dorsalis: seasonal activity - All year round, but perhaps more common in the cooler months than in the summer..
What is the life cycle of a Longitarsus dorsalis?
Feeds on the roots and leaves of various plants especially Groundsel and Ragwort.