Hydrophilus ensifer
This record describes Hydrophilus ensifer (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
2nd visible abdominal sternite with smaller glabrous (bare) area than H. triangularis or H. insularis
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Hydrophilidae (Water Scavenger Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Hydrophilinae
- Tribe
- Hydrophilini
- Genus
- Hydrophilus (Giant Water Scavenger Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
s. Florida; Caribbean; Mexico to Argentina
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hydrophilus ensifer Brullé 1837
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydrophilus ensifer. 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 Hydrophilus ensifer (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brady Richards; Additional contributions by v belov , mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrophilus ensifer
What is Hydrophilus ensifer?
Hydrophilus ensifer is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hydrophilus ensifer?
30-37 mm
How do you identify Hydrophilus ensifer?
2nd visible abdominal sternite with smaller glabrous (bare) area than H. triangularis or H. insularis
Where is Hydrophilus ensifer found?
Range: s. Florida; Caribbean; Mexico to Argentina