Hydroporus memnonius
This record describes Hydroporus memnonius (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3.8 to 4.3 mm. Sides more or less parallel. Colour may vary from rufous to almost black. Aedeagus with distinctive tongue-like process. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Widespread and quite frequent in Britain.
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
Canals, ponds and wet ditches.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time is April to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and quite frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydroporus memnonius. 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 memnonius (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydroporus memnonius
What is Hydroporus memnonius?
Hydroporus memnonius is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hydroporus memnonius?
3.8 to 4.3 mm. Sides more or less parallel. Colour may vary from rufous to almost black. Aedeagus with distinctive tongue-like process.
Where is Hydroporus memnonius found?
Habitat: Canals, ponds and wet ditches.
When is Hydroporus memnonius active?
Hydroporus memnonius: seasonal activity - Peak time is April to October..