Heterocerus fenestratus
This record describes Heterocerus fenestratus (species). Recorded family: Heteroceridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Only two species in this group are normally found inland. Heterocerus fenestratus has the two orange marks on the elytra, each side of the suture, reaching the front margin of the elytra. In H. marginatus, the other inland species, these marks are absent so that the base of the elytra is entirely dark. Heterocerus fenestratus is very hairy and has heavily spined front legs used to excavate tunnels in mud. In burrows in mud at the edge of ponds etc. Can be seen in summer by using the method outlined below. Flies at night and sometimes attracted to light. They live in burrows in mud at the edge of ponds etc. and can sometimes be tempted out by splashing water from the pond onto the mud.
Wikipedia reference for Heterocerus fenestratus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heterocerus_fenestratus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Dryopoidea
- Family
- Heteroceridae (Variegated Mud-loving Beetles)
- Genus
- Heterocerus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In burrows in mud at the edge of ponds etc.
Seasonal Activity
Can be seen in summer by using the method outlined below. Flies at night and sometimes attracted to light.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
They live in burrows in mud at the edge of ponds etc. and can sometimes be tempted out by splashing water from the pond onto the mud.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in southern Britain
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Heterocerus fenestratus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heterocerus fenestratus
What is Heterocerus fenestratus?
Heterocerus fenestratus is a species in the family Heteroceridae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Heterocerus fenestratus found?
Habitat: In burrows in mud at the edge of ponds etc.
When is Heterocerus fenestratus active?
Heterocerus fenestratus: seasonal activity - Can be seen in summer by using the method outlined below. Flies at night and sometimes attracted to light..
What is the life cycle of a Heterocerus fenestratus?
They live in burrows in mud at the edge of ponds etc. and can sometimes be tempted out by splashing water from the pond onto the mud.