Notaris acridulus

This record describes Notaris acridulus (species). Recorded family: Erirhinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Feature	Description
Additional details	3.5-5mm. Generally dark.
Elytra	Elytra and pronotum with short yellow hair-like scales and usually with two dense patches, one on each elytra towards the tip.
Antennae	Antennae pale brown but with dark clubs.
Legs	Legs dark except for pale brown tibia. Notaris scirpi is similar but generally larger: 5.5-7.3mm. 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. Damp areas and especially associated with Reed Sweet-grass. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Family: Erirhinidae
Genus: Notaris

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

Damp areas and especially associated with Reed Sweet-grass.

Seasonal Activity

Spring and summer.

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 Notaris acridulus. 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.

Explore Coleoptera families and species →