Coptotomus loticus
Hilsenhoff, 1980
Coptotomus loticus is a predaceous diving beetle described by Hilsenhoff in 1980. It belongs to the Coptotominae within Dytiscidae, a of aquatic beetles. The is known from eastern Canada, with records from Ontario and Québec. As a member of Coptotomus, it represents one of the less commonly encountered in North American dytiscid fauna.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coptotomus loticus: /kɒpˈtɒtəməs ˈloʊtɪkəs/
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Identification
Coptotomus are distinguished from other Dytiscidae by their elongate body form and the structure of the male genitalia. C. loticus can be separated from the only other North American species in the , C. interrogatus, by differences in the male and subtle body proportions. The specific epithet 'loticus' refers to its association with lotic (flowing water) , though this trait alone is not diagnostic. Examination of genitalic structures is required for definitive species-level identification.
Images
Habitat
in the Coptotomus are associated with lotic environments—streams and rivers with flowing water. This distinguishes them from many other Dytiscidae that inhabit lentic (standing water) systems such as ponds and lakes.
Distribution
Recorded from Ontario and Québec in eastern Canada. The distribution within North America appears restricted compared to the more widespread C. interrogatus.
Ecological Role
As a predaceous diving beetle, C. loticus functions as an aquatic in stream . Its presence in lotic fills a predatory distinct from pond-dwelling dytiscids.
Similar Taxa
- Coptotomus interrogatusThe only other North American in the ; distinguished by male genitalic and broader geographic distribution including the United States.
- Other DytiscidaeMost other North American diving beetles occupy lentic ; Coptotomus are distinguished by their elongate body form and preference for flowing water.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by William L. Hilsenhoff in 1980, expanding the known diversity of the Coptotomus in North America from one to two .
Etymology
The specific epithet 'loticus' derives from 'lotic,' referring to flowing water , contrasting with the lentic (standing water) associations of many diving beetles.