Nicrophorus vespillo
This record describes Nicrophorus vespillo (species). Recorded family: Silphidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
12 to 22 mm. This species is identified by the combination of orange antennal clubs, an interrupted anterior red elytral band, the hind tibia being concave on the inside edge and the presence of golden hairs on the fore margin of the pronotum. Usually found at carrion, but occasionally comes to light. They are scavengers, living off and breeding in rotten carcasses. They have a very good sense of smell and are reputed to be able to smell a carcass up to two miles away. Widespread and frequent in central and southern England and Wales. Very local further north. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Nicrophorus vespillo: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicrophorus_vespillo.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Silphidae
- Genus
- Nicrophorus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found at carrion, but occasionally comes to light.
Seasonal Activity
April to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
They are scavengers, living off and breeding in rotten carcasses. They have a very good sense of smell and are reputed to be able to smell a carcass up to two miles away.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in central and southern England and Wales. Very local further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nicrophorus vespillo. 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 Nicrophorus vespillo (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Nicrophorus vespillo
What is Nicrophorus vespillo?
Nicrophorus vespillo is a species in the family Silphidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Nicrophorus vespillo found?
Habitat: Usually found at carrion, but occasionally comes to light.
When is Nicrophorus vespillo active?
Nicrophorus vespillo: seasonal activity - April to October..
What is the life cycle of a Nicrophorus vespillo?
They are scavengers, living off and breeding in rotten carcasses. They have a very good sense of smell and are reputed to be able to smell a carcass up to two miles away.