Nartus
Zaitzev, 1907
Species Guides
1Nartus is a of predaceous diving beetles ( Dytiscidae) comprising at least two described : Nartus grapii and Nartus sinuatus. The genus was reinstated by Balke et al. in 2017 to accommodate species formerly placed in Rhantus, based on molecular and morphological evidence distinguishing them from that genus. As members of the Colymbetinae, these beetles are aquatic inhabiting freshwater environments.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nartus: /ˈnɑr.təs/
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Identification
Nartus were separated from the Rhantus based on phylogenetic and morphological studies by Balke et al. (2017). Specific diagnostic features distinguishing Nartus from Rhantus and other Colymbetinae genera are not detailed in available sources. Identification to species level requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological characters.
Habitat
Freshwater aquatic environments, typical of predaceous diving beetles in the Colymbetinae.
Distribution
Nartus grapii: Palearctic distribution (Europe, Asia). Nartus sinuatus: Nearctic distribution (North America). Distribution records from GBIF indicate presence in Norway (NO).
Diet
Predatory, as characteristic of the Dytiscidae; specific prey items for Nartus have not been documented separately from the family-level pattern.
Life Cycle
Holometabolous development with , larval, pupal, and stages. Larvae are aquatic and predatory, as in other Dytiscidae. Specific details of Nartus are not documented separately from -level patterns.
Ecological Role
Aquatic contributing to regulation of in freshwater .
Similar Taxa
More Details
Taxonomic history
Nartus was originally described by Zaitzev in 1907, subsequently synonymized with Rhantus, and reinstated as a valid in 2017 based on comprehensive phylogenetic study.