Graphoderus perplexus
This record describes Graphoderus perplexus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Unlike G. occidentalis , the posterior black fascia on the pronotum (the black band at the bottom part of the pronotum) does not reach the hind margin. The black band is contiguous (unseparated) with the hind margin in G. occidentalis .
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dytiscinae
- Tribe
- Aciliini
- Genus
- Graphoderus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author Sharp
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Graphoderus perplexus. 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 Graphoderus perplexus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Beatriz Moisset