Pterostichus coracinus
This record describes Pterostichus coracinus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Requires close examination to separate from very similar P. novus
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Harpalinae
- Tribe
- Pterostichini
- Genus
- Pterostichus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
wide range of habitats from open meadows to mixed hardwoods
Geographic Range
e. NA (NB-QC to SC-GA)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pterostichus coracinus (Newman 1838)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pterostichus coracinus. 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 Pterostichus coracinus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Matthew Roth; Additional contributions by tom murray , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Pterostichus coracinus
What is Pterostichus coracinus?
Pterostichus coracinus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Pterostichus coracinus?
12.5-18 mm
Where is Pterostichus coracinus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | wide range of habitats from open meadows to mixed hardwoods |
| Range | e. NA (NB-QC to SC-GA) |