Microlestes maurus

Microlestes maurus

Description

A small black Carabid, only 2.5 to 2.8 mm. It has short, truncate elytra, leaving the end of the abdomen visible. The sides of the elytra are rounded and diverging.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

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.

Habitat

Prefers dry, open habitats such as old quarries and other post industrial sites.

When to see it

Can be seen in most months of the year.

UK Status

Widespread in the southern half of Britain, particularly the south-east. Possibly under recorded due to its small size.

VC55 Status

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

No additional images available for this species.

All NatureSpot records