Pterostichus strenuus
This record describes Pterostichus strenuus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 7 mm. All black body but with red-brown legs. It has a sinuate pronotum with sharp hind angles. Common in almost every habitat, usually living amongst plant litter but also under stones. Common in gardens and on arable land.
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
Common in almost every habitat, usually living amongst plant litter but also under stones. Common in gardens and on arable land.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Predatory
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pterostichus strenuus. 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 strenuus (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pterostichus strenuus
What is Pterostichus strenuus?
Pterostichus strenuus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Pterostichus strenuus?
5 to 7 mm. All black body but with red-brown legs. It has a sinuate pronotum with sharp hind angles.
Where is Pterostichus strenuus found?
Habitat: Common in almost every habitat, usually living amongst plant litter but also under stones. Common in gardens and on arable land.
What is the life cycle of a Pterostichus strenuus?
Predatory