Anacaena limbata
This record describes Anacaena limbata (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Hind femora entirely pubescent except for apex; combined length of hind tarsomeres not longer than hind tibia. The identity of this species is confused, as apparently two species occur in North America that are being confused: A. limbata and A. lutescens.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Hydrophilidae (Water Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chaetarthriinae
- Tribe
- Anacaenini
- Genus
- Anacaena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Overgrown ponds & ditches, peat bogs, occasionally in other moist situations near water. ( 3 )
Geographic Range
Native to, and widespread across the Palaearctic ( 3 ) ; adventive in northeastern and northwestern North America. ( 4 ) State/Province Records: ( 4 ) CAN: BC, NS, ON USA: ?
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Anacaena limbata. 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 Anacaena limbata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Bbarnd , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Anacaena limbata
What is Anacaena limbata?
Anacaena limbata is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Anacaena limbata?
2 to 2.9 mm
How do you identify Anacaena limbata?
Hind femora entirely pubescent except for apex; combined length of hind tarsomeres not longer than hind tibia. The identity of this species is confused, as apparently two species occur in North America that are being confused: A. limbata and A. lutescens.
Where is Anacaena limbata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Overgrown ponds & ditches, peat bogs, occasionally in other moist situations near water. ( 3 ) |
| Range | Native to, and widespread across the Palaearctic ( 3 ) ; adventive in northeastern and northwestern North America. ( 4 ) State/Province Records: ( 4 ) CAN: BC, NS, ON USA: ? |