Enochrus cinctus
This record describes Enochrus cinctus (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The distinctively undercut mesosternal crest easily identifies this species. Note also the pale lateral margins of the clypeus, pronotum and elytra, the shallow abdominal notch and the simple protarsal claws of the male (vs basally toothed in E. consors and E. consortus )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Hydrophilidae (Water Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Enochrinae
- Genus
- Enochrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e NA west to SK-TX
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Enochrus cinctus (Say 1824)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Enochrus cinctus. 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 Enochrus cinctus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Steve Nanz , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Enochrus cinctus
What is Enochrus cinctus?
Enochrus cinctus is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Enochrus cinctus?
4.9-8.7 mm
How do you identify Enochrus cinctus?
The distinctively undercut mesosternal crest easily identifies this species. Note also the pale lateral margins of the clypeus, pronotum and elytra, the shallow abdominal notch and the simple protarsal claws of the male (vs basally toothed in E. consors and E. consortus )
Where is Enochrus cinctus found?
Range: e NA west to SK-TX