Copelatus distinctus
This record describes Copelatus distinctus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
10 discal striae and longitudinal strioles on lateral portion of pronotum; many striae are commonly reduced or absent, especially in males
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Copelatinae
- Genus
- Copelatus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Arizona to ‒ west Texas & Mexico
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Copelatus distinctus Aubé, 1838
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Copelatus distinctus. 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 Copelatus distinctus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Moyer; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Mike Quinn , v belov , mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Copelatus distinctus
What is Copelatus distinctus?
Copelatus distinctus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Copelatus distinctus?
10 discal striae and longitudinal strioles on lateral portion of pronotum; many striae are commonly reduced or absent, especially in males
Where is Copelatus distinctus found?
Range: Arizona to ‒ west Texas & Mexico