Acilius abbreviatus
This record describes Acilius abbreviatus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar to A. semisulcatus , differs in the appearance of the subapical white band, which is broadened laterally at the elytral suture (±complete arc in A. semisulcatus ). It is also the only Acilius reported from the far west. ―Tim Loh
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dytiscinae
- Tribe
- Aciliini
- Genus
- Acilius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AK‒CA‒CO
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Acilius abbreviatus Aubé 1838
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Acilius abbreviatus. 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 Acilius abbreviatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by cotinis , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Acilius abbreviatus
What is Acilius abbreviatus?
Acilius abbreviatus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Acilius abbreviatus?
♂ 12.4‒15.6 mm, ♀ 13.4‒15.8 mm
How do you identify Acilius abbreviatus?
Similar to A. semisulcatus , differs in the appearance of the subapical white band, which is broadened laterally at the elytral suture (±complete arc in A. semisulcatus ). It is also the only Acilius reported from the far west. ―Tim Loh
Where is Acilius abbreviatus found?
Range: AK‒CA‒CO