Othius punctulatus
This record describes Othius punctulatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
9 to 14mm. Blackish overall but with red elytra. The legs and antennae are also red. The pronotum may be dark red, particularly towards the margins. The abdominal tergites have a paler terminal band that becomes wider and more obvious on the final segments.The elytra and elongate and broadly parallel, expanding slightly towards the base, and covered in long pubescence. Easily distinguished within the genus as the other four species are much smaller (<7mm) and lack the red elytra. However there are many other staphylinid species that are broadly similar so it is generally necessary to key the specimen unless a high quality photo is available. Can be found under moss and in leaf litter often in wooded areas, but also around ponds and under logs. Common and widespread in much of England and Wales, less records from further north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Xantholininae
- Tribe
- Othiini
- Genus
- Othius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Can be found under moss and in leaf litter often in wooded areas, but also around ponds and under logs.
Seasonal Activity
All year, most active in May.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in much of England and Wales, less records from further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Othius punctulatus. 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 Othius punctulatus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Othius punctulatus
What is Othius punctulatus?
Othius punctulatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Othius punctulatus found?
Habitat: Can be found under moss and in leaf litter often in wooded areas, but also around ponds and under logs.
When is Othius punctulatus active?
Othius punctulatus: seasonal activity - All year, most active in May..