Hydrodytes dodgei
This record describes Hydrodytes dodgei (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
resembles a diminutive Copelatus , distinguished by smaller size and lack of elytral and sternal striae
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Hydrodytinae
- Genus
- Hydrodytes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
FL (may be expected north to the Carolinas)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hydrodytes dodgei (Young)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydrodytes dodgei. 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 Hydrodytes dodgei
What is Hydrodytes dodgei?
Hydrodytes dodgei is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hydrodytes dodgei?
2.3-2.8 mm
How do you identify Hydrodytes dodgei?
resembles a diminutive Copelatus , distinguished by smaller size and lack of elytral and sternal striae
Where is Hydrodytes dodgei found?
Range: FL (may be expected north to the Carolinas)