Agabus
Agabus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Adephaga
- Family: Dytiscidae
- Subfamily: Agabinae
- Tribe: Agabini
- Genus: Agabus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agabus: //ˈæ.ɡə.bəs//
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Images
Summary
Agabus is a genus of predatory aquatic beetles in the family Dytiscidae, notable for their diverse habitats across the Holarctic region and their role as important aquatic predators.
Physical Characteristics
Body length ranges from 5 to 14 mm.
Identification Tips
Identify by their streamlined bodies, which are adapted for swimming, and their predaceous habits.
Habitat
Primarily found in vegetation-rich permanent ponds, lotic environments (streams and rivers), temporary pools, and barren, mineral-rich aquatic environments in arctic and alpine zones.
Distribution
Holarctic region, with some species found in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa at high altitudes.
Diet
Predatory; they feed on other aquatic insects and invertebrates.
Life Cycle
Aquatic insects that predominantly overwinter as adults, with breeding, egg laying, and immature stages occurring in spring and summer; some may also overwinter as larvae and/or eggs.
Reproduction
Reproductive activity primarily occurs in spring and summer, with females laying eggs in aquatic environments.
Predators
Predators include larger fish and other aquatic invertebrates.
Ecosystem Role
Act as predators in aquatic ecosystems, helping to regulate populations of other insects.
Collecting Methods
- Net sampling of aquatic habitats
- Hand collection from vegetation
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying specimens for collections
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Aquatic Beetles
- Predatory Insects
- Dytiscidae
- Agabus