Colymbetes exaratus
This record describes Colymbetes exaratus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of the members of the C. sculptilis species complex, which consists of 5-6 similar to identical species; species identification is only reliable from examination of male genitalia (length of adeagus)and in some cases subtle differences in leg colouration and metafemur width. Adeagus length range for C. exaratus: 4.1-4.9 mm (specimen- ~4.8 mm)
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.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Colymbetes exaratus. 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 exaratus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray