Laccophilus maculosus
This record describes Laccophilus maculosus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Relatively large compared to other members of the genus; overall brownish in colour with elytra irrorate (freckled); the density of freckling varied, with the greatest around pale spots located along lateral, basal, and sutural margins.
Wikipedia reference for Laccophilus maculosus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laccophilus_maculosus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Laccophilinae
- Genus
- Laccophilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Permanent ponds and pools
Geographic Range
transcontinental, so. Canada to n Mexico , The ranges of L.m. decipiens and L.m. maculosus overlap and intergradation occurs
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Laccophilus maculosus Say 1823
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Laccophilus maculosus. 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 Laccophilus maculosus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , t.loh , v belov , Claude Tessier
Frequently Asked Questions About Laccophilus maculosus
What is Laccophilus maculosus?
Laccophilus maculosus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Laccophilus maculosus?
4.6-6.4 mm
How do you identify Laccophilus maculosus?
Relatively large compared to other members of the genus; overall brownish in colour with elytra irrorate (freckled); the density of freckling varied, with the greatest around pale spots located along lateral, basal, and sutural margins.
Where is Laccophilus maculosus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Permanent ponds and pools |
| Range | transcontinental, so. Canada to n Mexico , The ranges of L.m. decipiens and L.m. maculosus overlap and intergradation occurs |