Lutrochus luteus
This record describes Lutrochus luteus (species). Recorded family: Lutrochidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This very remarkable insect was found by Lieut. H. Haldeman, at Fort Gates in Texas; for my specimens I am indebted to his brother S. S. Haldeman. ( 5 )
Wikipedia reference for Lutrochus luteus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lutrochus_luteus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Dryopoidea
- Family
- Lutrochidae (Travertine Beetles)
- Genus
- Lutrochus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
larvae in calcareous encrustations or beneath submerged rocks, adults at water line or on submerged rocks/wood in streams with high calcium levels ( 3 )
Geographic Range
NM to c. TX-OK - Map , most records from TX
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Univoltine; larvae overwinter ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lutrochus luteus LeConte 1852
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lutrochus luteus. 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 Lutrochus luteus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Lutrochus luteus
What is Lutrochus luteus?
Lutrochus luteus is a species in the family Lutrochidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Lutrochus luteus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | larvae in calcareous encrustations or beneath submerged rocks, adults at water line or on submerged rocks/wood in streams with high calcium levels ( 3 ) |
| Range | NM to c. TX-OK - Map , most records from TX |
What is the life cycle of a Lutrochus luteus?
Univoltine; larvae overwinter ( 4 )