Elodes minutus
This record describes Elodes minutus (species). Recorded family: Scirtidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Please provide photograph to support your record. Although the larvae live in water, the adults can be found on vegetation. Peak months for this species are May and June. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Scirtidae
- Genus
- Elodes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Although the larvae live in water, the adults can be found on vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
Peak months for this species are May and June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae live in water.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Elodes minutus. 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 Elodes minutus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Elodes minutus
What is Elodes minutus?
Elodes minutus is a species in the family Scirtidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Elodes minutus?
about 6 mm.
Where is Elodes minutus found?
Habitat: Although the larvae live in water, the adults can be found on vegetation.
When is Elodes minutus active?
Elodes minutus: seasonal activity - Peak months for this species are May and June..
What is the life cycle of a Elodes minutus?
The larvae live in water.