Eretes sticticus
This record describes Eretes sticticus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dytiscinae
- Genus
- Eretes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Prefers temporary pools and ponds in dry regions
Geographic Range
s. Great Plains to s. Calif. (CA-AZ-TX) to Peru and the Galapagos (+W. Indies); also, w. Europe, throughout Africa and the Middle East
Diet and Behavior
Life History
has the most rapid development rate of any dytiscid, observed to develop from egg to adult in 15 days in a temporary pool in AZ (Kingsley 1985)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Eretes sticticus (Linnaeus 1767)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Eretes sticticus. 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 Eretes sticticus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ron M.; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Eretes sticticus
How big is Eretes sticticus?
13-19 mm
Where is Eretes sticticus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Prefers temporary pools and ponds in dry regions |
| Range | s. Great Plains to s. Calif. (CA-AZ-TX) to Peru and the Galapagos (+W. Indies); also, w. Europe, throughout Africa and the Middle East |
What is the life cycle of a Eretes sticticus?
has the most rapid development rate of any dytiscid, observed to develop from egg to adult in 15 days in a temporary pool in AZ (Kingsley 1985)