Stenus bimaculatus
This record describes Stenus bimaculatus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
It is a predator of Springtails and like many Stenus species, it has adapted mouthparts to help it catch and hang onto its prey. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales, less common further north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Stenus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It forages in open but damp habitats
Seasonal Activity
Most often seen in spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is a predator of Springtails and like many Stenus species, it has adapted mouthparts to help it catch and hang onto its prey.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales, less common further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Stenus bimaculatus. 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 Stenus bimaculatus (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Stenus bimaculatus
What is Stenus bimaculatus?
Stenus bimaculatus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Stenus bimaculatus?
6-7mm. This is one of six similar UK species which have 2 yellow spots on the elytra, though only four have so far been recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland. It has bicoloured legs with the black merging gradually into the yellow. It also has a short central keel on the basal tergites (the first below the elytra).
Where is Stenus bimaculatus found?
Habitat: It forages in open but damp habitats
When is Stenus bimaculatus active?
Stenus bimaculatus: seasonal activity - Most often seen in spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Stenus bimaculatus?
It is a predator of Springtails and like many Stenus species, it has adapted mouthparts to help it catch and hang onto its prey.