Laccophilus minutus
This record describes Laccophilus minutus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 4.5 mm. A small green/brown diving beetle, the elytra can be dark but may have varied paler markings. Mainly found in ponds and pools but has occasionally been recorded from flowing water. Has been recorded in most months of the year. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain, except in the far north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dytiscidae
- Genus
- Laccophilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mainly found in ponds and pools but has occasionally been recorded from flowing water.
Seasonal Activity
Has been recorded in most months of the year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain, except in the far north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Laccophilus minutus. 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 minutus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Laccophilus minutus
What is Laccophilus minutus?
Laccophilus minutus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Laccophilus minutus?
about 4.5 mm. A small green/brown diving beetle, the elytra can be dark but may have varied paler markings.
Where is Laccophilus minutus found?
Habitat: Mainly found in ponds and pools but has occasionally been recorded from flowing water.
When is Laccophilus minutus active?
Laccophilus minutus: seasonal activity - Has been recorded in most months of the year..