Ontholestes tessellatus
This record describes Ontholestes tessellatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 14 to 19 mm. A very distinctive rove beetle with some orangey-yellow colouring in the legs. It is similar to Ontholestes murinus but that species has completely dark legs. Usually found in association with carrion. All year round especially in summer months. It is not a particularly common species being widespread but scattered in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Ontholestes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found in association with carrion.
Seasonal Activity
All year round especially in summer months.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is not a particularly common species being widespread but scattered in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ontholestes tessellatus. 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 Ontholestes tessellatus (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ontholestes tessellatus
What is Ontholestes tessellatus?
Ontholestes tessellatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ontholestes tessellatus?
14 to 19 mm. A very distinctive rove beetle with some orangey-yellow colouring in the legs. It is similar to Ontholestes murinus but that species has completely dark legs.
Where is Ontholestes tessellatus found?
Habitat: Usually found in association with carrion.
When is Ontholestes tessellatus active?
Ontholestes tessellatus: seasonal activity - All year round especially in summer months..