Olophrum piceum
This record describes Olophrum piceum (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a small chestnut brown beetle with an unusual appearance for a member of the Staphylinidae family. It has strongly pitted elytra and pronotum with a black head and small black scutellum. Most frequently encountered in leaf litter. Can be found in most months of the year. Quite frequent and widespread in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Olophrum
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Most frequently encountered in leaf litter.
Seasonal Activity
Can be found in most months of the year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Quite frequent and widespread in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Olophrum piceum. 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 Olophrum piceum (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Olophrum piceum
What is Olophrum piceum?
Olophrum piceum is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Olophrum piceum found?
Habitat: Most frequently encountered in leaf litter.
When is Olophrum piceum active?
Olophrum piceum: seasonal activity - Can be found in most months of the year..