Patrobus atrorufus
This record describes Patrobus atrorufus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
7.5 to9.5 mm. Uniformly dark brown with reddish legs and antennae. The first two antennal segments are bare but the third is pubescent. The third antennal segment is longer than the first. Wings absent. Patrobus assimilis is similar but generally slightly smaller. It can be distinguished by the third antennal segment being the same length as the first. Often found in damp places and in woodland. Widely distributed in southern Britain but more scarce in the north. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Patrobus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found in damp places and in woodland.
Seasonal Activity
February to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widely distributed in southern Britain but more scarce in the north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Patrobus atrorufus. 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 Patrobus atrorufus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Patrobus atrorufus
What is Patrobus atrorufus?
Patrobus atrorufus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Patrobus atrorufus found?
Habitat: Often found in damp places and in woodland.
When is Patrobus atrorufus active?
Patrobus atrorufus: seasonal activity - February to October..