Hydroporus discretus
This record describes Hydroporus discretus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a small dark greeny black water beetle with orange brown legs and antennae. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dytiscidae
- Genus
- Hydroporus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Still water, ponds and cattle troughs.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydroporus discretus. 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 Hydroporus discretus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydroporus discretus
What is Hydroporus discretus?
Hydroporus discretus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Hydroporus discretus found?
Habitat: Still water, ponds and cattle troughs.
When is Hydroporus discretus active?
Hydroporus discretus: seasonal activity - All year round..