Cryptopleurum minutum
This record describes Cryptopleurum minutum (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (1.6 to 2 mm) dark beetle with deeply ribbed elytra. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Very varied habitats including moss and dung. Can be found in most months of the year. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Hydrophilidae (Water Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Sphaeridiinae
- Tribe
- Megasternini
- Genus
- Cryptopleurum
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Very varied habitats including moss and dung.
Seasonal Activity
Can be found in most months of the year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptopleurum minutum. 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 Cryptopleurum minutum (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptopleurum minutum
What is Cryptopleurum minutum?
Cryptopleurum minutum is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cryptopleurum minutum found?
Habitat: Very varied habitats including moss and dung.
When is Cryptopleurum minutum active?
Cryptopleurum minutum: seasonal activity - Can be found in most months of the year..