Philonthus sanguinolentus
This record describes Philonthus sanguinolentus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

A fairly large, dark rove beetle which has a series of five punctures on the pronotum. A patch habitat species frequently found in dung, but also in more extensive habitats on damp but well drained soils. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales. 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 patch habitat species frequently found in dung, but also in more extensive habitats on damp but well drained soils.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus sanguinolentus. 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 sanguinolentus
What is Philonthus sanguinolentus?
Philonthus sanguinolentus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Philonthus sanguinolentus found?
Habitat: A patch habitat species frequently found in dung, but also in more extensive habitats on damp but well drained soils.
When is Philonthus sanguinolentus active?
Philonthus sanguinolentus: seasonal activity - All year round..
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