Platystethus arenarius
This record describes Platystethus arenarius (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (4 or 5 mm) rove beetle with short, brown wing cases. The usual host is herbivore dung and the beetle is likely to be found wherever this occurs, irrespective of situation. They have also been found in association with other decomposing material, such a straw or fungi. All year but usually encountered from late spring to autumn. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Platystethus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
The usual host is herbivore dung and the beetle is likely to be found wherever this occurs, irrespective of situation. They have also been found in association with other decomposing material, such a straw or fungi.
Seasonal Activity
All year but usually encountered from late spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platystethus arenarius. 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 Platystethus arenarius (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platystethus arenarius
What is Platystethus arenarius?
Platystethus arenarius is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Platystethus arenarius found?
Habitat: The usual host is herbivore dung and the beetle is likely to be found wherever this occurs, irrespective of situation. They have also been found in association with other decomposing material, such a straw or fungi.
When is Platystethus arenarius active?
Platystethus arenarius: seasonal activity - All year but usually encountered from late spring to autumn..