Megarthrus prosseni
This record describes Megarthrus prosseni (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very small dark maroon-brown rove beetle with a short rather stubby appearance. Associated with most decomposing material, including straw, leaves and fungi. It has also been associated with dung. All year but mostly late spring to autumn. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Megarthrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with most decomposing material, including straw, leaves and fungi. It has also been associated with dung.
Seasonal Activity
All year but mostly late spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Megarthrus prosseni. 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 Megarthrus prosseni (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Megarthrus prosseni
What is Megarthrus prosseni?
Megarthrus prosseni is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Megarthrus prosseni found?
Habitat: Associated with most decomposing material, including straw, leaves and fungi. It has also been associated with dung.
When is Megarthrus prosseni active?
Megarthrus prosseni: seasonal activity - All year but mostly late spring to autumn..