Philonthus cruentatus
This record describes Philonthus cruentatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A blackish species but usually with prominent red spots on the wing cases. There are similar species and care is needed with identification. A species of extensive habitats on damp soils, but it also turns up in patch habitats, especially dung and carrion. All year round, but especially in summer. Widespread in England and Wales but not well recorded. No additional images available for this species.
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
A species of extensive habitats on damp soils, but it also turns up in patch habitats, especially dung and carrion.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but especially in summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales but not well recorded.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus cruentatus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philonthus cruentatus
What is Philonthus cruentatus?
Philonthus cruentatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Philonthus cruentatus found?
Habitat: A species of extensive habitats on damp soils, but it also turns up in patch habitats, especially dung and carrion.
When is Philonthus cruentatus active?
Philonthus cruentatus: seasonal activity - All year round, but especially in summer..