Hydroporus planus
This record describes Hydroporus planus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
3.8 to 4.8 mm. Black head and pronotum with dark red/brown elytra. The front corners of the elytra are a paler grey. It is generally covered in long, pale hairs. Hydroporus species are generally very hard to separate but the size, black head, grey front to the elytra and overall hairiness make H. planus easier than most. The rare H. marginatus is similar but has denser punctuation on the elytra and has wide, pale margins to the pronotum. 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. Usually found in temporary ponds and pools, even cattle troughs, but has also been recorded in running water. Has been recorded in all months of the year, but peaking in June and October. This species flies readily so often turns up in a wide variety of habitats. 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
Usually found in temporary ponds and pools, even cattle troughs, but has also been recorded in running water.
Seasonal Activity
Has been recorded in all months of the year, but peaking in June and October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This species flies readily so often turns up in a wide variety of habitats.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydroporus planus. 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 planus (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydroporus planus
What is Hydroporus planus?
Hydroporus planus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Hydroporus planus found?
Habitat: Usually found in temporary ponds and pools, even cattle troughs, but has also been recorded in running water.
When is Hydroporus planus active?
Hydroporus planus: seasonal activity - Has been recorded in all months of the year, but peaking in June and October..
What is the life cycle of a Hydroporus planus?
This species flies readily so often turns up in a wide variety of habitats.