Thermonectus basillaris
This record describes Thermonectus basillaris (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
transverse line on the head, transverse narrow fascia of the thorax, and interrupted basal fascia of the elytra, yellowish. Det. M. A. Quinn, 2013 among the most commonly coll'ed beetles (at UV lights) at Laguna Atascosa NWR, Cameron Co., TX
Wikipedia reference for Thermonectus basillaris: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermonectus_basillaris.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Dytiscidae (Predaceous Diving Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Dytiscinae
- Tribe
- Aciliini
- Genus
- Thermonectus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
nearly ubiquitous sp. occurring almost anywhere clear, temporary pools appear. does not seem to be common in more permanent situations. apparent pioneer sp. and adults have been found in water in tin cans, rain barrles, flooded gutters, and similar situations. ( 3 ) in rivers, creeks, ponds, ditches, cypress swamps, sewage effluent, washed uo on beach, in baited water trap, and at UV light. ( 4 )
Geographic Range
e US (ON-WI to FL-TX) to S. America; W. Indies
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Apr-Sept (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Thermonectus basillaris (Harris, 1829)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Thermonectus basillaris. 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 Thermonectus basillaris (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Tim Moyer , v belov , mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Thermonectus basillaris
What is Thermonectus basillaris?
Thermonectus basillaris is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Thermonectus basillaris?
8.1-10.7 mm
How do you identify Thermonectus basillaris?
transverse line on the head, transverse narrow fascia of the thorax, and interrupted basal fascia of the elytra, yellowish. Det. M. A. Quinn, 2013
Where is Thermonectus basillaris found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | nearly ubiquitous sp. occurring almost anywhere clear, temporary pools appear. does not seem to be common in more permanent situations. apparent pioneer sp. and adults have been found in water in tin cans, rain barrles, flooded gutters, and similar situations. ( 3 ) in rivers, creeks, ponds, ditches, cypress swamps, sewage effluent, washed uo on beach, in baited water trap, and at UV light. ( 4 ) |
| Range | e US (ON-WI to FL-TX) to S. America; W. Indies |
When is Thermonectus basillaris active?
Thermonectus basillaris: seasonal activity - mostly: Apr-Sept (BG data).