Poecilus cupreus
This record describes Poecilus cupreus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Poecilis cupreus is distinguished from the similar P. versicolor by having fine punctuations on its head between its eyes. In P. versicolor , the head is completely smooth and unpunctured. P. versicolor also prefers wetter habitats. You must have examined the specimen under a microscope. Add a comment to note the key ID features. Prefers open, dry habitats with short grass e.g. parkland and agricultural fields but also occasionally in woodland. Most likely to be seen in spring and summer It is a general predator. Breeds in spring Common but local across southern England and south Wales as far south as the Wash with scattered records south to Scotland
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- by the keel on the basal antennal segments.
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Prefers open, dry habitats with short grass e.g. parkland and agricultural fields but also occasionally in woodland.
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be seen in spring and summer
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is a general predator. Breeds in spring
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common but local across southern England and south Wales as far south as the Wash with scattered records south to Scotland
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Poecilus cupreus. 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 Poecilus cupreus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Poecilus cupreus
What is Poecilus cupreus?
Poecilus cupreus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Poecilus cupreus found?
Habitat: Prefers open, dry habitats with short grass e.g. parkland and agricultural fields but also occasionally in woodland.
When is Poecilus cupreus active?
Poecilus cupreus: seasonal activity - Most likely to be seen in spring and summer.
What is the life cycle of a Poecilus cupreus?
It is a general predator. Breeds in spring