Hydroporus rectus
This record describes Hydroporus rectus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

See Larson et al. for a detailed description.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Hydroporinae
- Tribe
- Hydroporini
- Genus
- Hydroporus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Larson states this is a characteristic species of peatlands, especially bogs. Often among sphagnum mosses or emergent Carex .
Geographic Range
Newfoundland to Alaska. Type specimen from Hermit Lake, NH. State/Province Records: CAN: AB, BC, LB, MB, NB, NF, NS, NT, ON, QC, SK, YK USA: AK, MI, NH, WI
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydroporus rectus. 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 rectus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Bbarnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydroporus rectus
What is Hydroporus rectus?
Hydroporus rectus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hydroporus rectus?
4.2 to 4.7 mm
How do you identify Hydroporus rectus?
See Larson et al. for a detailed description.
Where is Hydroporus rectus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Larson states this is a characteristic species of peatlands, especially bogs. Often among sphagnum mosses or emergent Carex . |
| Range | Newfoundland to Alaska. Type specimen from Hermit Lake, NH. State/Province Records: CAN: AB, BC, LB, MB, NB, NF, NS, NT, ON, QC, SK, YK USA: AK, MI, NH, WI |
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