Poecilus scitulus
This record describes Poecilus scitulus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
may be separated from the similar P. diplophryus by its sinuate prothorax sides before its right hind angle (vs. less sinuate sides before an obtuse hind angle), 2 dorsal elytron punctures (vs. 3), and BL 8.5‒11.5 mm (vs. 11‒12 mm)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Pterostichini
- Genus
- Poecilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w.NA (BC‒CA to MB‒TX, Mexico)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Poecilus scitulus LeConte 1846
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Poecilus scitulus. 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 scitulus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Edward Ruden
Frequently Asked Questions About Poecilus scitulus
What is Poecilus scitulus?
Poecilus scitulus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Poecilus scitulus?
may be separated from the similar P. diplophryus by its sinuate prothorax sides before its right hind angle (vs. less sinuate sides before an obtuse hind angle), 2 dorsal elytron punctures (vs. 3), and BL 8.5‒11.5 mm (vs. 11‒12 mm)
Where is Poecilus scitulus found?
Range: w.NA (BC‒CA to MB‒TX, Mexico)