Hydroporus incognitus
This record describes Hydroporus incognitus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (3 to 3.5 mm) dark brownish water beetle with paler creamy orange coloured markings which vary from one specimen to another. In still water such as ponds and in slow moving water. 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
In still water such as ponds and in slow moving water.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and common in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydroporus incognitus. 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 Hydroporus incognitus
What is Hydroporus incognitus?
Hydroporus incognitus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Hydroporus incognitus found?
Habitat: In still water such as ponds and in slow moving water.
When is Hydroporus incognitus active?
Hydroporus incognitus: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..