Heterocerus mollinus
This record describes Heterocerus mollinus (species). Recorded family: Heteroceridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
H. mollinus is the most common spp. of Heterocerus in N. Amer. Thousands of specimens can be collected in light traps placed near muddy river banks.
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
Unlike other Heterocerus spp., Heterocerus mollinus was present in nearly every se US riparian and habitat sampled as well as from nonriverine environments, such as roadside ditches. It is common near rivers and ponds of all sizes.
Geographic Range
occurs across N. Amer. - Map , most records e. US
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Heterocerus mollinus. 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 Heterocerus mollinus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Heterocerus mollinus
What is Heterocerus mollinus?
Heterocerus mollinus is a species in the family Heteroceridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Heterocerus mollinus?
Length 4.0-5.5 mm
Where is Heterocerus mollinus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Unlike other Heterocerus spp., Heterocerus mollinus was present in nearly every se US riparian and habitat sampled as well as from nonriverine environments, such as roadside ditches. It is common near rivers and ponds of all sizes. |
| Range | occurs across N. Amer. - Map , most records e. US |