Hydrochus rugosus
This record describes Hydrochus rugosus (species). Recorded family: Hydrochidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
large size and distinct epicranial sulcus (groove)
Wikipedia reference for Hydrochus rugosus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrochus_rugosus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Hydrochidae
- Genus
- Hydrochus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
lentic species, also along margins of slow streams (Young 1954)
Geographic Range
MA-FL, OK-TX / Cuba
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hydrochus rugosus Mulsant 1844
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydrochus rugosus. 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 Hydrochus rugosus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrochus rugosus
What is Hydrochus rugosus?
Hydrochus rugosus is a species in the family Hydrochidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hydrochus rugosus?
4.8-6.1 mm (The largest Hydrochus species in the Nearctic)
How do you identify Hydrochus rugosus?
large size and distinct epicranial sulcus (groove)
Where is Hydrochus rugosus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | lentic species, also along margins of slow streams (Young 1954) |
| Range | MA-FL, OK-TX / Cuba |