Margarinotus merdarius
This record describes Margarinotus merdarius (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 6 or 7 mm. It has 4 'complete' dorsal stria on the elytra, an indented frontal stria on the head and most importantly, the pronotum is particularly characteristic for this species (compared to brunneus and striola) in not being so strongly curved inwards towards the front angles and with an inner stria that typically bends inwards near the pronotal base rather than exacting a more-or-less parallel course relative to the outer stria. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Typically found under carrion, in rotting vegetation or dung. Probably peaking around April and May, but can be found at any time of the year. Widespread in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Margarinotus merdarius: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margarinotus_merdarius.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Histeroidea
- Family
- Histeridae (Clown Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Histerinae
- Tribe
- Histerini
- Genus
- Margarinotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Typically found under carrion, in rotting vegetation or dung.
Seasonal Activity
Probably peaking around April and May, but can be found at any time of the year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Margarinotus merdarius. 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 Margarinotus merdarius (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Margarinotus merdarius
What is Margarinotus merdarius?
Margarinotus merdarius is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Margarinotus merdarius?
6 or 7 mm. It has 4 'complete' dorsal stria on the elytra, an indented frontal stria on the head and most importantly, the pronotum is particularly characteristic for this species (compared to brunneus and striola) in not being so strongly curved inwards towards the front angles and with an inner stria that typically bends inwards near the pronotal base rather than exacting a more-or-less parallel course relative to the outer stria.
Where is Margarinotus merdarius found?
Habitat: Typically found under carrion, in rotting vegetation or dung.
When is Margarinotus merdarius active?
Margarinotus merdarius: seasonal activity - Probably peaking around April and May, but can be found at any time of the year..