Tachyporus obtusus
This record describes Tachyporus obtusus (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4 mm. Generally orange but with the front half of the elytra and the last abdominal segments black. Though the genus is generally recognisable, there are 14 UK species so care needs to be taken to identify to species. Typical specimens can be recognised from a quality image. Most habitats including woods and gardens - on plants, moss and in leaf litter. Most likely to be seen in summer and autumn
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Tachyporus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Most habitats including woods and gardens - on plants, moss and in leaf litter.
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be seen in summer and autumn
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on aphids and other tiny insects
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Tachyporus obtusus. 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 Tachyporus obtusus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tachyporus obtusus
What is Tachyporus obtusus?
Tachyporus obtusus is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Tachyporus obtusus?
4 mm. Generally orange but with the front half of the elytra and the last abdominal segments black.
Where is Tachyporus obtusus found?
Habitat: Most habitats including woods and gardens - on plants, moss and in leaf litter.
When is Tachyporus obtusus active?
Tachyporus obtusus: seasonal activity - Most likely to be seen in summer and autumn.
What is the life cycle of a Tachyporus obtusus?
Feeds on aphids and other tiny insects