Ophonus puncticeps
This record describes Ophonus puncticeps (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A 6.5 to 9 mm long, brownish black, seed eating ground beetle. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Open, ruderal habitats. Although this is a ground beetle they can often be found in the curled up flower/seed heads of Wild Carrot, in which they often rest by day. Most British records appear to come from south of a line between the Humber and the Severn estuary. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Harpalini
- Genus
- Ophonus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Open, ruderal habitats. Although this is a ground beetle they can often be found in the curled up flower/seed heads of Wild Carrot, in which they often rest by day.
Seasonal Activity
May to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A seed eating ground beetle.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Most British records appear to come from south of a line between the Humber and the Severn estuary.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ophonus puncticeps. 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 puncticeps (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ophonus puncticeps
What is Ophonus puncticeps?
Ophonus puncticeps is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Ophonus puncticeps found?
Habitat: Open, ruderal habitats. Although this is a ground beetle they can often be found in the curled up flower/seed heads of Wild Carrot, in which they often rest by day.
When is Ophonus puncticeps active?
Ophonus puncticeps: seasonal activity - May to October..
What is the life cycle of a Ophonus puncticeps?
A seed eating ground beetle.