Dryops luridus
This record describes Dryops luridus (species). Recorded family: Dryopidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 4 mm. Covered in hairs and with hook-like claws for crawling on under-water vegetation. Along the banks of various water bodies, typically amongst moss. All year round, but most likely to be recorded in summer. Records on NBN suggest that it is widespread over much of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dryopidae
- Genus
- Dryops
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Along the banks of various water bodies, typically amongst moss.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but most likely to be recorded in summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Records on NBN suggest that it is widespread over much of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dryops luridus. 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 Dryops luridus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dryops luridus
What is Dryops luridus?
Dryops luridus is a species in the family Dryopidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Dryops luridus?
about 4 mm. Covered in hairs and with hook-like claws for crawling on under-water vegetation.
Where is Dryops luridus found?
Habitat: Along the banks of various water bodies, typically amongst moss.
When is Dryops luridus active?
Dryops luridus: seasonal activity - All year round, but most likely to be recorded in summer..