Contacyphon laevipennis
This record describes Contacyphon laevipennis (species). Recorded family: Scirtidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Around ponds and wet areas, sometimes associated with Common Reed (Phragmites australis) but also found where this plant is not present. Widespread and fairly common in suitable areas of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Scirtidae
- Genus
- Contacyphon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Around ponds and wet areas, sometimes associated with Common Reed (Phragmites australis) but also found where this plant is not present.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae are aquatic.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly common in suitable areas of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Contacyphon laevipennis. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Contacyphon laevipennis
What is Contacyphon laevipennis?
Contacyphon laevipennis is a species in the family Scirtidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Contacyphon laevipennis found?
Habitat: Around ponds and wet areas, sometimes associated with Common Reed (Phragmites australis) but also found where this plant is not present.
When is Contacyphon laevipennis active?
Contacyphon laevipennis: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Contacyphon laevipennis?
Larvae are aquatic.