Hydroporus palustris
This record describes Hydroporus palustris (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
3.3 to 4.0 mm. Elongate oval; the elytral outline is smoothly curved from base to apex. Dark elytra with yellow patterning at the front and sides, though this can be variable. Head red at the front. Antennal segments darkened along the apical half. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Found in all types of still and slow running freshwater such as ponds and canals. May be encountered in most months of the year.
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
Found in all types of still and slow running freshwater such as ponds and canals.
Seasonal Activity
May be encountered in most months of the year.
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 palustris. 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 palustris (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydroporus palustris
What is Hydroporus palustris?
Hydroporus palustris is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Hydroporus palustris found?
Habitat: Found in all types of still and slow running freshwater such as ponds and canals.
When is Hydroporus palustris active?
Hydroporus palustris: seasonal activity - May be encountered in most months of the year..