Cercyon variegatus
This record describes Cercyon variegatus (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
readily identified by its colour, and the fact that the striae of the elytra are simply impressed lines, almost without trace of punctuation (Sharp 1882) apparently the most abundant of the Central-American species of Cercyon . (Sharp 1882)
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
Geographic Range
se US (TX-FL-NC) to S. Amer. - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cercyon variegatus Sharp 1882
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cercyon variegatus. 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 variegatus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Cercyon variegatus
What is Cercyon variegatus?
Cercyon variegatus is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Cercyon variegatus?
readily identified by its colour, and the fact that the striae of the elytra are simply impressed lines, almost without trace of punctuation (Sharp 1882)
Where is Cercyon variegatus found?
Range: se US (TX-FL-NC) to S. Amer. - Map