Meligethes atratus
This record describes Meligethes atratus (species). Recorded family: Nitidulidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2.5 to 3.8 mm. Black with pale brown legs and antennae (except for the dark club) and with pale pronotal and elytral margins. It lacks striae on the elytra but does have a groove running down each elytron from behind the humerus (sub-humeral depression). The pronotum has fine punctuation and is smooth between the punctures. M. flavimanus is very similar but is reticulate between the pronotal punctures (smooth in M. atratus ). Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used. Note the beetle's size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed. Frequents flower meadows and hedgerows with blossom. Widespread in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Cucujoidea
- Family
- Nitidulidae (Sap-feeding Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Meligethinae
- Genus
- Meligethes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Frequents flower meadows and hedgerows with blossom.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Develops in the flowers of roses.
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 Meligethes atratus. 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 Meligethes atratus (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Meligethes atratus
What is Meligethes atratus?
Meligethes atratus is a species in the family Nitidulidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Meligethes atratus?
2.5 to 3.8 mm. Black with pale brown legs and antennae (except for the dark club) and with pale pronotal and elytral margins. It lacks striae on the elytra but does have a groove running down each elytron from behind the humerus (sub-humeral depression). The pronotum has fine punctuation and is smooth between the punctures.
Where is Meligethes atratus found?
Habitat: Frequents flower meadows and hedgerows with blossom.
When is Meligethes atratus active?
Meligethes atratus: seasonal activity - Spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Meligethes atratus?
Develops in the flowers of roses.