Agabus guttatus
This record describes Agabus guttatus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 8 or 9 mm. A dark brown/black diving beetle usually with pale spots on the elytra. Similar (but usually smaller) spots occur in other species. The elytra are covered in a fine mesh-like reticulated micro-sculpture. A row of fine punctures runs alongside each side of the elytral suture. Small water courses such as wet ditches and streams. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dytiscidae
- Genus
- Agabus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Small water courses such as wet ditches and streams.
Seasonal Activity
All year peaking April to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agabus guttatus. 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 guttatus
What is Agabus guttatus?
Agabus guttatus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Agabus guttatus?
8 or 9 mm. A dark brown/black diving beetle usually with pale spots on the elytra. Similar (but usually smaller) spots occur in other species. The elytra are covered in a fine mesh-like reticulated micro-sculpture. A row of fine punctures runs alongside each side of the elytral suture.
Where is Agabus guttatus found?
Habitat: Small water courses such as wet ditches and streams.
When is Agabus guttatus active?
Agabus guttatus: seasonal activity - All year peaking April to October..