Cercyon lateralis
This record describes Cercyon lateralis (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very small species, measuring around 2.5 to 3mm in length. The head and shoulders are quite dark brown or blackish fading to a more golden or reddish brown nearer the tips of the elytra. Care is needed with identification as there are other, similar species. All year round but mainly in the summer months. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Identification notes
as there are other, similar species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Hydrophilidae (Water Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Sphaeridiinae
- Tribe
- Megasternini
- Genus
- Cercyon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In herbivore dung.
Seasonal Activity
All year round but mainly in the summer months.
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 Cercyon lateralis. 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 Cercyon lateralis
What is Cercyon lateralis?
Cercyon lateralis is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Cercyon lateralis?
as there are other, similar species.
Where is Cercyon lateralis found?
Habitat: In herbivore dung.
When is Cercyon lateralis active?
Cercyon lateralis: seasonal activity - All year round but mainly in the summer months..