Philonthus varians
This record describes Philonthus varians (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 6 mm. The brownish elytra often show some degree of red marking or spots. Associated with decaying matter and dung. Widespread and fairly frequent in 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
Associated with decaying matter and dung.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Philonthus varians. 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 varians (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Philonthus varians
What is Philonthus varians?
Philonthus varians is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Philonthus varians?
about 6 mm. The brownish elytra often show some degree of red marking or spots.
Where is Philonthus varians found?
Habitat: Associated with decaying matter and dung.
When is Philonthus varians active?
Philonthus varians: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..