Hydrocanthus oblongus
This record describes Hydrocanthus oblongus (species). Recorded family: Noteridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytra may be slightly darker than head and pronotum The most abundant and common sp. in FL
Wikipedia reference for Hydrocanthus oblongus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrocanthus_oblongus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Noteridae (Burrowing Water Beetles)
- Genus
- Hydrocanthus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
coastal plains
Geographic Range
NJ‒FL‒TX; Bahamas, Cuba
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hydrocanthus oblongus Sharp 1882
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydrocanthus oblongus. 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 Hydrocanthus oblongus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brady Richards; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrocanthus oblongus
What is Hydrocanthus oblongus?
Hydrocanthus oblongus is a species in the family Noteridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hydrocanthus oblongus?
3.7‒4.8 mm
How do you identify Hydrocanthus oblongus?
elytra may be slightly darker than head and pronotum
Where is Hydrocanthus oblongus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | coastal plains |
| Range | NJ‒FL‒TX; Bahamas, Cuba |