Pyropterus nigroruber
This record describes Pyropterus nigroruber (species). Recorded family: Lycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
7.5 to 10 mm it is entirely black but with distinctive red elytra. The antennae in this species are not pale tipped . Platycis minutus is similar but has pale tipped antennae. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Adults have been observed on a variety of flowers feeding on pollen during hot weather and on may also be seen on moss covered timber. The short-lived adults occur mainly from June to August. In Britain it has a restricted and fragmentary distribution; it is locally frequent around South Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire but little recorded elsewhere. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Lycidae
- Genus
- Pyropterus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Adults have been observed on a variety of flowers feeding on pollen during hot weather and on may also be seen on moss covered timber.
Seasonal Activity
The short-lived adults occur mainly from June to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
In Britain it has a restricted and fragmentary distribution; it is locally frequent around South Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire but little recorded elsewhere.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pyropterus nigroruber. 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 Pyropterus nigroruber (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pyropterus nigroruber
What is Pyropterus nigroruber?
Pyropterus nigroruber is a species in the family Lycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Pyropterus nigroruber found?
Habitat: Adults have been observed on a variety of flowers feeding on pollen during hot weather and on may also be seen on moss covered timber.
When is Pyropterus nigroruber active?
Pyropterus nigroruber: seasonal activity - The short-lived adults occur mainly from June to August..