Laccobius bipunctatus
This record describes Laccobius bipunctatus (species). Recorded family: Hydrophilidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (3.2 to 3.8 mm), dark coloured water beetle. Female prosternum with sharp median keel. 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. Most often encountered around pools and ponds, but may be seen at the margins of any water body and also attracted to light. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Hydrophilidae
- Genus
- Laccobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Most often encountered around pools and ponds, but may be seen at the margins of any water body and also attracted to light.
Seasonal Activity
April to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and common in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Laccobius bipunctatus. 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 Laccobius bipunctatus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Laccobius bipunctatus
What is Laccobius bipunctatus?
Laccobius bipunctatus is a species in the family Hydrophilidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Laccobius bipunctatus found?
Habitat: Most often encountered around pools and ponds, but may be seen at the margins of any water body and also attracted to light.
When is Laccobius bipunctatus active?
Laccobius bipunctatus: seasonal activity - April to October..