Philonthus carbonarius
This record describes Philonthus carbonarius (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
7-8mm. Black but with a green metallic sheen on the elytra. The legs and palps are dark brown. This looks like a smaller version of P. cognatus but lacks the bicolour (brown+yellow)of the first antennal segment. 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. Commonly found in open woodland and heath-grassland. Widespread and fairly frequent over much of Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Staphylininae
- Tribe
- Staphylinini
- Genus
- Philonthus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Commonly found in open woodland and heath-grassland.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Often found with
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent over much of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus carbonarius. 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 Philonthus carbonarius (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Philonthus carbonarius
What is Philonthus carbonarius?
Philonthus carbonarius is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Philonthus carbonarius found?
Habitat: Commonly found in open woodland and heath-grassland.
What is the life cycle of a Philonthus carbonarius?
Often found with