Helophorus grandis
This record describes Helophorus grandis (species). Recorded family: Helophoridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5.3 to 7.7mm. As with other Helophorus the pronotum has characteristic zig-zag longitudinal grooves. It is pale brown to straw coloured with darker spots on the elytra. The large size means it could only be confused with larger specimens of Helophorus aequalis which can reach 6.3mm. They share similar habitat preferences and can be found together. H. grandis has castellated 'teeth' on bottom edge of the last sternite (in H. aequalis these are much finer and more numerous). Freshwater habitats although it does fly and may be attracted to light. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Helophorus grandis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helophorus_grandis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Helophoridae
- Genus
- Helophorus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
preferences and can be found together.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Helophorus grandis. 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 grandis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Helophorus grandis
What is Helophorus grandis?
Helophorus grandis is a species in the family Helophoridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Helophorus grandis?
5.3 to 7.7mm. As with other Helophorus the pronotum has characteristic zig-zag longitudinal grooves. It is pale brown to straw coloured with darker spots on the elytra.
Where is Helophorus grandis found?
Habitat: preferences and can be found together.
When is Helophorus grandis active?
Helophorus grandis: seasonal activity - All year round..