ColeopteraStaphylinidae

Philonthus laminatus

This record describes Philonthus laminatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Philonthus laminatus - Philonthus laminatus

This rove beetle has a very shiny, metallic greeny bronze appearance. It can be found in all months of the year but most commonly between May and September. It is an active predator of small insects. Fairly frequent and widespread across England and Wales, scarcer further north. No additional images available for this species.

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Genus
Philonthus

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

Various

Seasonal Activity

It can be found in all months of the year but most commonly between May and September.

Diet and Behavior

Life History

It is an active predator of small insects.

Additional species information

Recorded status

Fairly frequent and widespread across England and Wales, scarcer further north.

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus laminatus. 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.

Explore Coleoptera families and species →

Photos of Philonthus laminatus (3)

Philonthus laminatus - photo 1
Philonthus laminatus - photo 2
Philonthus laminatus - photo 3

Frequently Asked Questions About Philonthus laminatus

What is Philonthus laminatus?

Philonthus laminatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.

Where is Philonthus laminatus found?

Habitat: Various

When is Philonthus laminatus active?

Philonthus laminatus: seasonal activity - It can be found in all months of the year but most commonly between May and September..

What is the life cycle of a Philonthus laminatus?

It is an active predator of small insects.