Hyphydrus ovatus
This record describes Hyphydrus ovatus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length around 4.5 mm. The small oval/globular form and dark red to brown colouration are distinctive. Some have vague elytral patterning at the margins, especially in teneral specimens. Hyphydrus aubei is a similar size and shape but has a much more distinctive elytral pattern. Their normal habitat is stagnant still water and temporary ponds, drainage channels and slow moving water, rich in detritus and vegetation. A generally common species throughout England and Wales, but with far fewer records north of south Yorkshire and Lancashire. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dytiscidae
- Genus
- Hyphydrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Their normal habitat is stagnant still water and temporary ponds, drainage channels and slow moving water, rich in detritus and vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
March to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A generally common species throughout England and Wales, but with far fewer records north of south Yorkshire and Lancashire.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hyphydrus ovatus. 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 Hyphydrus ovatus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyphydrus ovatus
What is Hyphydrus ovatus?
Hyphydrus ovatus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hyphydrus ovatus?
around 4.5 mm. The small oval/globular form and dark red to brown colouration are distinctive. Some have vague elytral patterning at the margins, especially in teneral specimens.
Where is Hyphydrus ovatus found?
Habitat: Their normal habitat is stagnant still water and temporary ponds, drainage channels and slow moving water, rich in detritus and vegetation.
When is Hyphydrus ovatus active?
Hyphydrus ovatus: seasonal activity - March to October..