Pterostichus vernalis
This record describes Pterostichus vernalis (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 to 8 mm. A black beetle with legs and antennae dark brown to black but with the basal segment of the antennae paler. It has a very rounded pronotum with toothed hind angles. The tarsi have a central furrow above. Various habitats, under logs and stones, in moss or leaf litter, often in moist meadows and also beside freshwater.
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
Various habitats, under logs and stones, in moss or leaf litter, often in moist meadows and also beside freshwater.
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 vernalis. 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 vernalis (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pterostichus vernalis
What is Pterostichus vernalis?
Pterostichus vernalis is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Pterostichus vernalis?
6 to 8 mm. A black beetle with legs and antennae dark brown to black but with the basal segment of the antennae paler. It has a very rounded pronotum with toothed hind angles. The tarsi have a central furrow above.
Where is Pterostichus vernalis found?
Habitat: Various habitats, under logs and stones, in moss or leaf litter, often in moist meadows and also beside freshwater.