Stilbus testaceus
This record describes Stilbus testaceus (species). Recorded family: Phalacridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 1.8 to 2.3 mm. A small, shiny brown beetle with paler tipped elytra. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Found in a wide range of habitats including moss, leaf litter, compost, flood refuse, grass tussocks etc. All year round peaking in April and May. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Stilbus testaceus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stilbus_testaceus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Phalacridae
- Genus
- Stilbus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in a wide range of habitats including moss, leaf litter, compost, flood refuse, grass tussocks etc.
Seasonal Activity
All year round peaking in April and May.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Stilbus testaceus. 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 Stilbus testaceus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Stilbus testaceus
What is Stilbus testaceus?
Stilbus testaceus is a species in the family Phalacridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Stilbus testaceus?
1.8 to 2.3 mm. A small, shiny brown beetle with paler tipped elytra.
Where is Stilbus testaceus found?
Habitat: Found in a wide range of habitats including moss, leaf litter, compost, flood refuse, grass tussocks etc.
When is Stilbus testaceus active?
Stilbus testaceus: seasonal activity - All year round peaking in April and May..