Stenus providus
This record describes Stenus providus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 mm. A slightly shiny greyish rove beetle with slightly orange legs and darkened knees. The head and thorax are studded with dimples. In various types of grassland including dry places, but also in marshes, lakeshores and riverbanks. Common in Britain though becoming scarcer northwards. No additional images available for this species.
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
In various types of grassland including dry places, but also in marshes, lakeshores and riverbanks.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common in Britain though becoming scarcer northwards.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Stenus providus. 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 providus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Stenus providus
What is Stenus providus?
Stenus providus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Stenus providus?
6 mm. A slightly shiny greyish rove beetle with slightly orange legs and darkened knees. The head and thorax are studded with dimples.
Where is Stenus providus found?
Habitat: In various types of grassland including dry places, but also in marshes, lakeshores and riverbanks.
When is Stenus providus active?
Stenus providus: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..