Hygrotus wardii
This record describes Hygrotus wardii (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The only species of Hygrotus with its primary distribution in Mexico
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Hydroporinae
- Tribe
- Hygrotini
- Genus
- Hygrotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
southeast AZ ‒ west TX ‒ central Mexico
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Hygrotus ( Leptolambus ) wardii (Clark)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hygrotus wardii. 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 Hygrotus wardii (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Matthew Pintar; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Hygrotus wardii
What is Hygrotus wardii?
Hygrotus wardii is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hygrotus wardii?
3.8‒4.3 mm
Where is Hygrotus wardii found?
Range: southeast AZ ‒ west TX ‒ central Mexico