Xantholinus linearis
This record describes Xantholinus linearis (species). Recorded family: Staphylinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 7-8mm. This elongated rove beetle has a black head and abdomen, dark brown elytra and a dark red to black pronotum with a metalic sheen. The legs, palps and antennae are yellow to red. It has particularly strong microsculpture on the pronotum. The species Xantholinus longiventris and Xantholinus linearis can only be separated by microscopic examination but the strong microsculpture on the pronotum distinguishes X. linearis . All year but peaking in spring and summer. Common and widespread in Britain. Possibly the most frequently encountered rove beetle.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Staphylinoidea
- Family
- Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Xantholininae
- Tribe
- Xantholinini
- Genus
- Xantholinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mainly in dry, open habitats.
Seasonal Activity
All year but peaking in spring and summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain. Possibly the most frequently encountered rove beetle.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Xantholinus linearis. 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 Xantholinus linearis (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Xantholinus linearis
What is Xantholinus linearis?
Xantholinus linearis is a species in the family Staphylinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Xantholinus linearis?
7-8mm. This elongated rove beetle has a black head and abdomen, dark brown elytra and a dark red to black pronotum with a metalic sheen. The legs, palps and antennae are yellow to red. It has particularly strong microsculpture on the pronotum.
Where is Xantholinus linearis found?
Habitat: Mainly in dry, open habitats.
When is Xantholinus linearis active?
Xantholinus linearis: seasonal activity - All year but peaking in spring and summer..