Microcara testacea
This record describes Microcara testacea (species). Recorded family: Scirtidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
4-5.5mm yellow-brown usually with darker markings on the centre of the pronotum, which has a roughly half-moon shape but with rounded hind angles. It is finely pubescent. The antennae has 11 segments with the three basal segments paler than the remainder, the first and third segments about equal in length and longer than the small second segment. The scutellum is large and triangular with more finely punctures than the surrounding elytra. 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. Damp areas and near to small water bodies especially in well wooded areas. Larvae develop in stagnant ponds, mostly in wooded areas. They feed on algae and decaying vegetable matter. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Scirtidae
- Genus
- Microcara
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Damp areas and near to small water bodies especially in well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
May to July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae develop in stagnant ponds, mostly in wooded areas. They feed on algae and decaying vegetable matter.
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 Microcara testacea. 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 Microcara testacea (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Microcara testacea
What is Microcara testacea?
Microcara testacea is a species in the family Scirtidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Microcara testacea?
and longer than the small second segment. The scutellum is large and triangular with more finely punctures than the surrounding elytra.
Where is Microcara testacea found?
Habitat: Damp areas and near to small water bodies especially in well wooded areas.
When is Microcara testacea active?
Microcara testacea: seasonal activity - May to July..
What is the life cycle of a Microcara testacea?
Larvae develop in stagnant ponds, mostly in wooded areas. They feed on algae and decaying vegetable matter.