Pterostichus melanarius
This record describes Pterostichus melanarius (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
13-17 mm with body, legs and antennae all black. The pronotum is fairly short and wide when compared to Pterostichus niger and is evenly rounded with a small tooth at the sharp rear angles. Deep elytral striae with convex intervals; Claw-bearing tarsal segment has 2-4 pairs of bristles on the underside. Gardens, grassland and agricultural fields.
Wikipedia reference for Pterostichus melanarius: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pterostichus_melanarius.
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
Gardens, grassland and agricultural fields.
Seasonal Activity
All year
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pterostichus melanarius. 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 melanarius (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pterostichus melanarius
What is Pterostichus melanarius?
Pterostichus melanarius is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Pterostichus melanarius found?
Habitat: Gardens, grassland and agricultural fields.
When is Pterostichus melanarius active?
Pterostichus melanarius: seasonal activity - All year.