Hornectes quadrimaculatus
This record describes Hornectes quadrimaculatus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

color pattern distinctive ▪ Syntype
Identification notes
color pattern distinctive ▪ Syntype
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Hydroporinae
- Tribe
- Hydroporini
- Genus
- Hornectes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
small clear streams
Geographic Range
BC‒AB‒CA ; uncommon, sporadic
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hornectes quadrimaculatus (Horn 1883)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hornectes quadrimaculatus. 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 Hornectes quadrimaculatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by v belov , Claude Tessier
Frequently Asked Questions About Hornectes quadrimaculatus
What is Hornectes quadrimaculatus?
Hornectes quadrimaculatus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hornectes quadrimaculatus?
3.4‒4.0 mm
How do you identify Hornectes quadrimaculatus?
color pattern distinctive ▪ Syntype
Where is Hornectes quadrimaculatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | small clear streams |
| Range | BC‒AB‒CA ; uncommon, sporadic |
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