Rugilus orbiculatus
This record describes Rugilus orbiculatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 5 mm. This is a dark brown rove beetle with yellow/orange legs. Found in dung heaps, grass cuttings, flood refuse etc. Although widespread in Britain this species seems to be most frequently recorded in central and eastern England.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Paederinae
- Tribe
- Lathrobiini
- Genus
- Rugilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in dung heaps, grass cuttings, flood refuse etc.
Seasonal Activity
All year round
Additional species information
Recorded status
Although widespread in Britain this species seems to be most frequently recorded in central and eastern England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Rugilus orbiculatus. 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 Rugilus orbiculatus (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rugilus orbiculatus
What is Rugilus orbiculatus?
Rugilus orbiculatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Rugilus orbiculatus?
about 5 mm. This is a dark brown rove beetle with yellow/orange legs.
Where is Rugilus orbiculatus found?
Habitat: Found in dung heaps, grass cuttings, flood refuse etc.
When is Rugilus orbiculatus active?
Rugilus orbiculatus: seasonal activity - All year round.