Rhantus binotatus
This record describes Rhantus binotatus (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum with 2 medial spots, part of lateral elytron margin dark brown to glossy black (from abdominal sternum 1 onward); black on head not extending anteriorly around front of eye.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Colymbetinae
- Tribe
- Colymbetini
- Genus
- Rhantus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
streams, springs, ponds, puddles.
Geographic Range
across Canada and most of the US (except se.US)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Rhantus binotatus. 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 Rhantus binotatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhantus binotatus
What is Rhantus binotatus?
Rhantus binotatus is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Rhantus binotatus?
Pronotum with 2 medial spots, part of lateral elytron margin dark brown to glossy black (from abdominal sternum 1 onward); black on head not extending anteriorly around front of eye.
Where is Rhantus binotatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | streams, springs, ponds, puddles. |
| Range | across Canada and most of the US (except se.US) |