Philonthus debilis
This record describes Philonthus debilis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (about 5 mm) dark rove beetle with short dark brown wing cases. Under logs and stones and in leaf litter and debris. Widespread but infrequent in England and Wales, little recorded in Scotland. 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
Under logs and stones and in leaf litter and debris.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but infrequent in England and Wales, little recorded in Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus debilis. 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 debilis
What is Philonthus debilis?
Philonthus debilis is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Philonthus debilis found?
Habitat: Under logs and stones and in leaf litter and debris.
When is Philonthus debilis active?
Philonthus debilis: seasonal activity - All year round..