Colymbetes densus
This record describes Colymbetes densus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
In this species, the frons is swollen (rather protruding) in front of the eyes (comments by Tim Loh here ).
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Colymbetinae
- Tribe
- Colymbetini
- Genus
- Colymbetes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Pacific Northwest to Alaska
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Colymbetes densus. 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 Colymbetes densus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by cotinis
Frequently Asked Questions About Colymbetes densus
What is Colymbetes densus?
Colymbetes densus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Colymbetes densus?
15 mm (holotype specimen at Harvard MCZ)
How do you identify Colymbetes densus?
In this species, the frons is swollen (rather protruding) in front of the eyes (comments by Tim Loh here ).
Where is Colymbetes densus found?
Range: Pacific Northwest to Alaska