Platydracus stercorarius
This record describes Platydracus stercorarius (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
An impressive and colourful Rove Beetle, P stercorarius is also quite a large species reaching 2 cm or more in length. The legs and elytra are rust red, whilst the head, thorax and abdomen are mainly black. The head is very square at the back and there are bands of pale pubescence on the apical abdominal segments. A species of extensive habitats on damp but well drained soils. Often on bare ground mosaics exposed to the sun. All year round peaking July to September. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Platydracus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A species of extensive habitats on damp but well drained soils. Often on bare ground mosaics exposed to the sun.
Seasonal Activity
All year round peaking July to September.
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 Platydracus stercorarius. 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 Platydracus stercorarius (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platydracus stercorarius
What is Platydracus stercorarius?
Platydracus stercorarius is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Platydracus stercorarius found?
Habitat: A species of extensive habitats on damp but well drained soils. Often on bare ground mosaics exposed to the sun.
When is Platydracus stercorarius active?
Platydracus stercorarius: seasonal activity - All year round peaking July to September..