Pterostichus pensylvanicus
This record describes Pterostichus pensylvanicus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
imaged MCZ specimen
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
deciduous, mixed and (occasionally) coniferous forests, mainly in leaf litter or under small logs
Geographic Range
northern transcontinental (BC‒NT‒NF to SD‒IA‒VA)
Seasonal Activity
spring breeder
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pterostichus pensylvanicus Leconte 1873
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pterostichus pensylvanicus. 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 pensylvanicus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by v belov , Thrasher
Frequently Asked Questions About Pterostichus pensylvanicus
How big is Pterostichus pensylvanicus?
9.5‒12.0 mm
How do you identify Pterostichus pensylvanicus?
imaged MCZ specimen
Where is Pterostichus pensylvanicus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | deciduous, mixed and (occasionally) coniferous forests, mainly in leaf litter or under small logs |
| Range | northern transcontinental (BC‒NT‒NF to SD‒IA‒VA) |
When is Pterostichus pensylvanicus active?
Pterostichus pensylvanicus: seasonal activity - spring breeder.