Agabus discolor
This record describes Agabus discolor (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Diagnosis :
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Agabinae
- Tribe
- Agabini
- Genus
- Agabus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
in semipermanent to permanent vegetation-rich ponds
Geographic Range
Transcontinental in Canada and Alaska, also in the northern US states south to Colorado .
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Agabus discolor (Harris 1828)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agabus discolor. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Agabus discolor
How big is Agabus discolor?
6.4-7.8 mm
How do you identify Agabus discolor?
Diagnosis :
Where is Agabus discolor found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | in semipermanent to permanent vegetation-rich ponds |
| Range | Transcontinental in Canada and Alaska, also in the northern US states south to Colorado . |