Ophonus ardosiacus
This record describes Ophonus ardosiacus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 10 to 14 mm. A rather variable species - the elytra may vary from a bright dark blue to almost black. The legs are usually brown. Usually found on disturbed ground or post industrial sites often under stones. All year round, but most likely to be found from March to August. Uncommon in Britain where it has a mainly southerly distribution. It is classified as Nationally Scarce B. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Ophonus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found on disturbed ground or post industrial sites often under stones.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but most likely to be found from March to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Uncommon in Britain where it has a mainly southerly distribution. It is classified as Nationally Scarce B.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ophonus ardosiacus. 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 Ophonus ardosiacus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ophonus ardosiacus
What is Ophonus ardosiacus?
Ophonus ardosiacus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ophonus ardosiacus?
10 to 14 mm. A rather variable species - the elytra may vary from a bright dark blue to almost black. The legs are usually brown.
Where is Ophonus ardosiacus found?
Habitat: Usually found on disturbed ground or post industrial sites often under stones.
When is Ophonus ardosiacus active?
Ophonus ardosiacus: seasonal activity - All year round, but most likely to be found from March to August..