Platambus
Platambus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Adephaga
- Family: Dytiscidae
- Subfamily: Agabinae
- Tribe: Agabini
- Genus: Platambus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Platambus: //pləˈtæmbəs//
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Summary
Platambus is a genus of aquatic beetles found primarily in the Holarctic region, with significant diversity in the eastern United States. They require careful dissection for accurate identification.
Physical Characteristics
Most individuals in the P. semivittatus group have a subapical lateral pale stripe on each elytron; distinguished by a wide epipleuron and spot markings on the ventral surface.
Identification Tips
Most specimens require dissection and examination of male protarsal claws to identify.
Habitat
Primarily found in aquatic habitats.
Distribution
Holarctic region, with some species also found in Mesoamerica; highest diversity in the eastern United States and the coastal plain.
Diet
Carnivorous, primarily feeding on other aquatic organisms.
Ecosystem Role
As aquatic beetles, they play a significant role in their ecosystems as predators, affecting aquatic invertebrate populations.
Collecting Methods
- Aquatic trapping methods
- Hand netting in aquatic environments
- Dunking containers in suitable habitats
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation for aquatic specimens
- Drying for morphological examination
- Mounting on pins or cards for display
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often mistaken with other aquatic beetles due to similar coloration and habitat preferences.
Tags
- Beetle
- Aquatic
- Dytiscidae
- Platambus
- Coleoptera