Pterostichus moestus
This record describes Pterostichus moestus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Diagnostic clues: terminal tarsomeres glabrous beneath; pronotal depression extends well to laterobasal side; pronotal sides sinuate; elytron widest near apex and with 4 dorsal setae; range noted below.
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
Geographic Range
From NY southward through mainly the Appalachian region to GA.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pterostichus moestus. 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 moestus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Peter W. Messer; Additional contributions by Thrasher
Frequently Asked Questions About Pterostichus moestus
What is Pterostichus moestus?
Pterostichus moestus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Pterostichus moestus?
Diagnostic clues: terminal tarsomeres glabrous beneath; pronotal depression extends well to laterobasal side; pronotal sides sinuate; elytron widest near apex and with 4 dorsal setae; range noted below.
Where is Pterostichus moestus found?
Range: From NY southward through mainly the Appalachian region to GA.