Tasgius morsitans
This record describes Tasgius morsitans (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of the larger rove beetles at 12 to 16 mm. It is all black except for red legs and the antennae basal segments + apical segment. It can be distinguished from all other similar species by the dense punctures on the pronotum that are all of even size. A ground dwelling beetle recorded in various habitats from woodland to well drained arable fields. It may be found sheltering under logs and stones, and is sometimes recorded in pitfall traps. Widespread in England, but less well recorded elsewhere in Britain
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Staphylinidae
- Genus
- Tasgius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A ground dwelling beetle recorded in various habitats from woodland to well drained arable fields. It may be found sheltering under logs and stones, and is sometimes recorded in pitfall traps.
Seasonal Activity
All year peaking in summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England, but less well recorded elsewhere in Britain
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Tasgius morsitans. 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 Tasgius morsitans (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tasgius morsitans
What is Tasgius morsitans?
Tasgius morsitans is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Tasgius morsitans?
abdomen matt black
Where is Tasgius morsitans found?
Habitat: A ground dwelling beetle recorded in various habitats from woodland to well drained arable fields. It may be found sheltering under logs and stones, and is sometimes recorded in pitfall traps.
When is Tasgius morsitans active?
Tasgius morsitans: seasonal activity - All year peaking in summer..