Enochrus melanocephalus
This record describes Enochrus melanocephalus (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5.5 to 6.5 mm. A pale straw coloured water beetle. Associated with richly vegetated pools and ponds, sometimes in shaded areas. It is widespread in England to Northumberland but few records for the south west, Wales and Ireland with none for Scotland. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Hydrophilidae
- Genus
- Enochrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with richly vegetated pools and ponds, sometimes in shaded areas.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is widespread in England to Northumberland but few records for the south west, Wales and Ireland with none for Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Enochrus melanocephalus. 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 melanocephalus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Enochrus melanocephalus
What is Enochrus melanocephalus?
Enochrus melanocephalus is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Enochrus melanocephalus?
5.5 to 6.5 mm. A pale straw coloured water beetle.
Where is Enochrus melanocephalus found?
Habitat: Associated with richly vegetated pools and ponds, sometimes in shaded areas.
When is Enochrus melanocephalus active?
Enochrus melanocephalus: seasonal activity - All year round..