Margarinotus ventralis
This record describes Margarinotus ventralis (species). Recorded family: Histeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Formerly known as Paralister carbonarius. Approx 6 mm long and 4 mm wide. This beetle has a rounded shape and is uniformly black with well separated lines of studded holes on the elytra. The shortened elytra leave two of the seven tergites exposed. The antennae are angled and clubbed. Various habitats, but can be found in dung, carcases and decomposing fungi. The larvae and adult forms of Histeridae have been known to feed on dung, carrion, decomposing vegetation, other insects, larvae, and pupae. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Histeridae
- Genus
- Margarinotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats, but can be found in dung, carcases and decomposing fungi.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae and adult forms of Histeridae have been known to feed on dung, carrion, decomposing vegetation, other insects, larvae, and pupae.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent in England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Margarinotus ventralis. 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 ventralis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Margarinotus ventralis
What is Margarinotus ventralis?
Margarinotus ventralis is a species in the family Histeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Margarinotus ventralis found?
Habitat: Various habitats, but can be found in dung, carcases and decomposing fungi.
When is Margarinotus ventralis active?
Margarinotus ventralis: seasonal activity - Spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Margarinotus ventralis?
The larvae and adult forms of Histeridae have been known to feed on dung, carrion, decomposing vegetation, other insects, larvae, and pupae.