Ilybius ater
This record describes Ilybius ater (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A fairly large smooth blackish water beetle. Always associated with aquatic environments, but flies well and can be attracted to light. The typical habitat is emergent vegetation in shallow water at the edge of ponds, lakes ditches etc. All year round but peaking in late summer. A lowland species widespread throughout much of the UK.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dytiscidae
- Genus
- Ilybius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Always associated with aquatic environments, but flies well and can be attracted to light. The typical habitat is emergent vegetation in shallow water at the edge of ponds, lakes ditches etc.
Seasonal Activity
All year round but peaking in late summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A lowland species widespread throughout much of the UK.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ilybius ater. 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 Ilybius ater (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ilybius ater
What is Ilybius ater?
Ilybius ater is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Ilybius ater found?
Habitat: Always associated with aquatic environments, but flies well and can be attracted to light. The typical habitat is emergent vegetation in shallow water at the edge of ponds, lakes ditches etc.
When is Ilybius ater active?
Ilybius ater: seasonal activity - All year round but peaking in late summer..