Notiophilus biguttatus
This record describes Notiophilus biguttatus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The Notiophilus beetles are very distinctive with prominent eyes. There are eight species in Britain, all very similar but often in different habitats. N. biguttatus usually has pale apical spots or patches on the apical ends of the elytra, though these can be faint. Found in almost any habitat but mainly in open woodlands. From April onwards it can be seen on pathways in sunshine, later in the year it may be observed in leaf litter. They are diurnal and strictly carnivorous, preying upon springtails and mites amongst the leaf litter. Breeds mostly in the spring but larvae have been observed at the end of summer suggesting a partial second generation. Common and widespread throughout Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Nebriinae
- Tribe
- Notiophilini
- Genus
- Notiophilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in almost any habitat but mainly in open woodlands.
Seasonal Activity
From April onwards it can be seen on pathways in sunshine, later in the year it may be observed in leaf litter.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
They are diurnal and strictly carnivorous, preying upon springtails and mites amongst the leaf litter. Breeds mostly in the spring but larvae have been observed at the end of summer suggesting a partial second generation.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread throughout Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Notiophilus biguttatus. 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 Notiophilus biguttatus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Notiophilus biguttatus
What is Notiophilus biguttatus?
Notiophilus biguttatus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Notiophilus biguttatus found?
Habitat: Found in almost any habitat but mainly in open woodlands.
When is Notiophilus biguttatus active?
Notiophilus biguttatus: seasonal activity - From April onwards it can be seen on pathways in sunshine, later in the year it may be observed in leaf litter..
What is the life cycle of a Notiophilus biguttatus?
They are diurnal and strictly carnivorous, preying upon springtails and mites amongst the leaf litter. Breeds mostly in the spring but larvae have been observed at the end of summer suggesting a partial second generation.