Platyderus depressus
This record describes Platyderus depressus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5.5 to 8 mm. A narrow and elongate ground beetle, it is dorsally flat and varies in colour from a very dark red/brown to light red brown. Mainly from coastal regions and other dry or sandy areas. Occurs throughout England south of a line between the Wash and the Severn estuary, previously infrequent and local but probably becoming more common. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Platyderus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mainly from coastal regions and other dry or sandy areas.
Seasonal Activity
All year round
Additional species information
Recorded status
Occurs throughout England south of a line between the Wash and the Severn estuary, previously infrequent and local but probably becoming more common.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platyderus depressus. 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 Platyderus depressus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platyderus depressus
What is Platyderus depressus?
Platyderus depressus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Platyderus depressus?
5.5 to 8 mm. A narrow and elongate ground beetle, it is dorsally flat and varies in colour from a very dark red/brown to light red brown.
Where is Platyderus depressus found?
Habitat: Mainly from coastal regions and other dry or sandy areas.
When is Platyderus depressus active?
Platyderus depressus: seasonal activity - All year round.