Cercyon melanocephalus
This record describes Cercyon melanocephalus (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A distinctive 'Dung Beetle' with a reddish elytra and black triangular colouration over the scutellar area. Though a member of the water beetle family, this species lives in dung, effectively 'swimming' through it. Like some other beetles in this family, it spins a silk cocoon in which to protect its eggs. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Hydrophilidae
- Genus
- Cercyon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Though a member of the water beetle family, this species lives in dung, effectively 'swimming' through it.
Seasonal Activity
It can be found from March to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Like some other beetles in this family, it spins a silk cocoon in which to protect its eggs.
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 melanocephalus. 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 Cercyon melanocephalus (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cercyon melanocephalus
What is Cercyon melanocephalus?
Cercyon melanocephalus is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cercyon melanocephalus found?
Habitat: Though a member of the water beetle family, this species lives in dung, effectively 'swimming' through it.
When is Cercyon melanocephalus active?
Cercyon melanocephalus: seasonal activity - It can be found from March to October..
What is the life cycle of a Cercyon melanocephalus?
Like some other beetles in this family, it spins a silk cocoon in which to protect its eggs.