Helophorus aequalis
This record describes Helophorus aequalis (species). Recorded family: Helophoridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very common water beetle, 4.5 to 6.3 mm length, it is all brown in colour with the zig-zag ridges on the thorax typical of the genus. Darker spots may be present on the elytra. It is most similar to H. grandis which is also one of the larger Helophorus beetles. They can be separated by the size and shape of the 'teeth' at the end of the last abdominal segment - small and numerous in aequalis, larger and castellated in grandis. Helophorus aequalis is nearly always found near water, but not necessarily in it. All year round, but more readily recorded in summer. The larvae live in the water and are fierce predators.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Helophoridae
- Genus
- Helophorus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Helophorus aequalis
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but more readily recorded in summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae live in the water and are fierce predators.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Helophorus aequalis. 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 Helophorus aequalis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Helophorus aequalis
What is Helophorus aequalis?
Helophorus aequalis is a species in the family Helophoridae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Helophorus aequalis found?
Habitat: Helophorus aequalis
When is Helophorus aequalis active?
Helophorus aequalis: seasonal activity - All year round, but more readily recorded in summer..
What is the life cycle of a Helophorus aequalis?
The larvae live in the water and are fierce predators.