Gyrinus marinus
This record describes Gyrinus marinus (species). Recorded family: Gyrinidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
4.5 to 8 mm with the females being generally larger than males. Broadly-oval and widest behind the middle, entirely shiny black with a bluish or bronzy lustre and red legs with dark claws. This last feature is present in only one other UK species, Gyrinus aeratus . Gyrinus aeratus is similar, but here the elytral margin between the outer row of punctures and the edge is narrow throughout whereas in G. marinus it becomes wider from the middle then tapers before the apex. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Still water bodies. Usually found in larger pools but can also occur in small ponds. Most records fall between March and October when the species is most active. Widespread and locally fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Gyrinus marinus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyrinus_marinus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Gyrinidae
- Genus
- Gyrinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Still water bodies. Usually found in larger pools but can also occur in small ponds.
Seasonal Activity
Most records fall between March and October when the species is most active.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
They feed on small insects.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and locally fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Gyrinus marinus. 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 Gyrinus marinus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Gyrinus marinus
What is Gyrinus marinus?
Gyrinus marinus is a species in the family Gyrinidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Gyrinus marinus found?
Habitat: Still water bodies. Usually found in larger pools but can also occur in small ponds.
When is Gyrinus marinus active?
Gyrinus marinus: seasonal activity - Most records fall between March and October when the species is most active..
What is the life cycle of a Gyrinus marinus?
They feed on small insects.