Thermonectus intermedius
This record describes Thermonectus intermedius (species). Recorded family: Dytiscidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar to, and variously treated as, T. basillaris ; and preliminary molecular data suggest they are the same species. Currently, T. basillaris is distinguished by the lack of the subbasal yellow band on elytra and genital structure. However, coloration and male genital structure often do match, particularly in interior west. The anterior and posterior black blotches on the pronotum are partly to almost completely fused. Type Locality: California
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
Geographic Range
w. US (OR-CA-w.TX-KS)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Thermonectus intermedius Crotch 1873
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Thermonectus intermedius. 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 intermedius (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , mpintar
Frequently Asked Questions About Thermonectus intermedius
What is Thermonectus intermedius?
Thermonectus intermedius is a species in the family Dytiscidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Thermonectus intermedius?
Similar to, and variously treated as, T. basillaris ; and preliminary molecular data suggest they are the same species. Currently, T. basillaris is distinguished by the lack of the subbasal yellow band on elytra and genital structure. However, coloration and male genital structure often do match, particularly in interior west. The anterior and posterior black blotches on the pronotum are partly to almost completely fused.
Where is Thermonectus intermedius found?
Range: w. US (OR-CA-w.TX-KS)