Oxypselaphus obscurus
This record describes Oxypselaphus obscurus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6.5 mm. This is small, brown ground beetle has a dark/black head and pale appendages. The elongate and highly sinuate pronotum, heavily punctured at the base, together with the pale legs helps to make this species 9the only UK species in the genus) distinctive. Oxypselaphus obscurus should have all of the following characters: It can be found all year round but is most likely to be seen from spring to autumn. Widespread in the southern half of Britain, it can be plentiful in suitable wetter areas. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Oxypselaphus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with wetter areas.
Seasonal Activity
It can be found all year round but is most likely to be seen from spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain, it can be plentiful in suitable wetter areas.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Oxypselaphus obscurus. 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 Oxypselaphus obscurus (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxypselaphus obscurus
What is Oxypselaphus obscurus?
Oxypselaphus obscurus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Oxypselaphus obscurus?
6.5 mm. This is small, brown ground beetle has a dark/black head and pale appendages. The elongate and highly sinuate pronotum, heavily punctured at the base, together with the pale legs helps to make this species 9the only UK species in the genus) distinctive.
Where is Oxypselaphus obscurus found?
Habitat: Associated with wetter areas.
When is Oxypselaphus obscurus active?
Oxypselaphus obscurus: seasonal activity - It can be found all year round but is most likely to be seen from spring to autumn..