Noterus clavicornis
This record describes Noterus clavicornis (species). Recorded family: Noteridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
There are two UK Noterus species. The genus can be recognised by the broad coxal process on the underside - see ID Aids below. Length 4 - 5 mm. This species is boat-shaped with the elytra broadest in front of middle. The colour of the elytra is variable but usually mid to dark brown with a slightly lighter pronotum and head. It has a mid-line ridge on the prosternum - see ID Aids below. It is important to state the size with this species together with a good image of both the upper and lower side of the beetle. All year round but most easily recorded in summer. Both adults and larvae are aquatic, and are commonly found around plants. They have a habit of burrowing through pond and marsh substrate, thus the common name, and are primarily carnivorous, with some scavenging observed. Widespread and frequent in England and Wales, with fewer records coming from Scotland.
Wikipedia reference for Noterus clavicornis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noterus_clavicornis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Noteridae
- Genus
- Noterus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found in ponds.
Seasonal Activity
All year round but most easily recorded in summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Both adults and larvae are aquatic, and are commonly found around plants. They have a habit of burrowing through pond and marsh substrate, thus the common name, and are primarily carnivorous, with some scavenging observed.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in England and Wales, with fewer records coming from Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Noterus clavicornis. 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 Noterus clavicornis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Noterus clavicornis
What is Noterus clavicornis?
Noterus clavicornis is a species in the family Noteridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Noterus clavicornis?
4 - 5 mm. This species is boat-shaped with the elytra broadest in front of middle. The colour of the elytra is variable but usually mid to dark brown with a slightly lighter pronotum and head. It has a mid-line ridge on the prosternum - see ID Aids below.
Where is Noterus clavicornis found?
Habitat: Usually found in ponds.
When is Noterus clavicornis active?
Noterus clavicornis: seasonal activity - All year round but most easily recorded in summer..
What is the life cycle of a Noterus clavicornis?
Both adults and larvae are aquatic, and are commonly found around plants. They have a habit of burrowing through pond and marsh substrate, thus the common name, and are primarily carnivorous, with some scavenging observed.