ColeopteraDytiscidae – Predaceous Diving Beetles

Clarkhydrus spectabilis

This record describes Clarkhydrus spectabilis (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Clarkhydrus spectabilis - Clarkhydrus spectabilis
Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by mpintar

Clarkhydrus spectabilis (Clarkhydrus spectabilis) is a species in the family Dytiscidae, commonly known as predaceous diving beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Hydroporinae, tribe Hydroporini, suborder Adephaga. This species belongs to the genus Clarkhydrus. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: Length 4.

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Coleoptera (Beetles)
Suborder
Adephaga
Family
Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
Subfamily
Hydroporinae
Tribe
Hydroporini
Genus
Clarkhydrus

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Geographic Range

AZ-NM to Durango, Mex.

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: spectabilis (L). 'notable or showy'

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Clarkhydrus spectabilis. 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.

Explore Coleoptera families and species →

Frequently Asked Questions About Clarkhydrus spectabilis

What is Clarkhydrus spectabilis?

Clarkhydrus spectabilis is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.

How big is Clarkhydrus spectabilis?

Length 4.57

Where is Clarkhydrus spectabilis found?

Range: AZ-NM to Durango, Mex.

How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by mpintar. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.