Silis ruficollis
This record describes Silis ruficollis (species). Recorded family: Cantharidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A distinctive species being 6 to 7mm long with a black pronotum, and having the base of tibiae and mandibles red. The pronotum is deeply notched at the hind angles and coarsely punctate throughout. Each elytron has three slightly raised lines. Quite a rare insect mostly recorded from southern England and Wales and currently classed as Nationally Scarce b.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Cantharidae
- Genus
- Silis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wet areas, fens and reedbeds.
Seasonal Activity
Mid June to the end of July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Quite a rare insect mostly recorded from southern England and Wales and currently classed as Nationally Scarce b.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Silis ruficollis. 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 Silis ruficollis (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Silis ruficollis
What is Silis ruficollis?
Silis ruficollis is a species in the family Cantharidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Silis ruficollis found?
Habitat: Wet areas, fens and reedbeds.
When is Silis ruficollis active?
Silis ruficollis: seasonal activity - Mid June to the end of July..