Malthodes minimus
This record describes Malthodes minimus (species). Recorded family: Cantharidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This small beetle is only 3-4mm long. The elytra are dark and usually yellow tipped, exposing part of the wings and abdomen beneath. There are fifteen species in the genus and they are very hard to separate. For males examination of the appendages at the tip of the abdomen under a microscope is required. Females can't usually be identified to species. Well wooded areas, but also in long grass and water meadows. As with other members of the Cantharidae family, they are mainly predatory, preying on other insects. Common in southern Britain, scarcer in the north
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Cantharidae
- Genus
- Malthodes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Well wooded areas, but also in long grass and water meadows.
Seasonal Activity
Early May to late August
Diet and Behavior
Life History
As with other members of the Cantharidae family, they are mainly predatory, preying on other insects.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common in southern Britain, scarcer in the north
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Malthodes minimus. 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 Malthodes minimus (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Malthodes minimus
What is Malthodes minimus?
Malthodes minimus is a species in the family Cantharidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Malthodes minimus found?
Habitat: Well wooded areas, but also in long grass and water meadows.
When is Malthodes minimus active?
Malthodes minimus: seasonal activity - Early May to late August.
What is the life cycle of a Malthodes minimus?
As with other members of the Cantharidae family, they are mainly predatory, preying on other insects.