Gyrinus marginellus

Fall, 1922

whirligig beetle

Gyrinus marginellus is a of in the , described by Fall in 1922. It occurs in North America, with records from Canada (Québec) and the United States. Like other members of the Gyrinus, it is an aquatic that lives on the water surface. The species is part of a taxonomically challenging group where identification often requires examination of characters.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Gyrinus marginellus: //d͡ʒaɪˈɹaɪnəs mɑːrd͡ʒɪˈnɛləs//

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Identification

Gyrinus marginellus belongs to the Gyrinus, which can be distinguished from the other North genus Dineutus by its smaller size (typically 5–8 mm versus ~12 mm in Dineutus) and exposed . Within Gyrinus, identification typically requires examination of coloration and other subtle characters; G. marginellus is characterized by features of the ventral surface and margins of the as indicated by its specific epithet.

Distribution

North America, including Canada (Québec) and the United States.

Similar Taxa

  • Dineutus spp.Larger size (~12 mm), hidden , and rounded elytral distinguish Dineutus from Gyrinus including G. marginellus.
  • Other Gyrinus species within Gyrinus are difficult to distinguish without examining coloration and other subtle morphological characters; G. marginellus specifically shows distinctive marginal features of the .

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Sources and further reading