Contacyphon palustris
This record describes Contacyphon palustris (species). Recorded family: Scirtidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (approx. 3.3 mm) reddish brown marsh beetle. Favouring damp habitats such as pond margins and wet meadows. 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
Favouring damp habitats such as pond margins and wet meadows.
Seasonal Activity
Late May to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Contacyphon palustris. 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 Contacyphon palustris (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Contacyphon palustris
What is Contacyphon palustris?
Contacyphon palustris is a species in the family Scirtidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Contacyphon palustris found?
Habitat: Favouring damp habitats such as pond margins and wet meadows.
When is Contacyphon palustris active?
Contacyphon palustris: seasonal activity - Late May to August..