Liodessus obscurellus
This record describes Liodessus obscurellus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Reliably separated from L. affinis by aedeagus only comes in numbers to lights
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Hydroporinae
- Tribe
- Bidessini
- Genus
- Liodessus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
shallow, sun-warmed habitats
Geographic Range
AK‒CA to IN‒LA; nw Mexico
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Liodessus obscurellus (LeConte 1851)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Liodessus obscurellus. 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 Liodessus obscurellus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Liodessus obscurellus
What is Liodessus obscurellus?
Liodessus obscurellus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Liodessus obscurellus?
1.6‒2.2 mm
How do you identify Liodessus obscurellus?
Reliably separated from L. affinis by aedeagus only
Where is Liodessus obscurellus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | shallow, sun-warmed habitats |
| Range | AK‒CA to IN‒LA; nw Mexico |