Chaetarthria

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Hydrophiloidea
Family: Hydrophilidae
Subfamily: Chaetarthriinae
Genus: Chaetarthria

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chaetarthria: //kaɪˈtɑːrθriə//

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Summary

Chaetarthria is a genus of water scavenger beetles in the family Hydrophilidae with more than 20 described species. They inhabit areas near water and are typically found buried in wet conditions.

Physical Characteristics

Broadly oval, very convex; 1st abdominal sternum posteriorly lined with a fringe of long golden hairs, covering the 2nd abdominal segment; translucent hyaline mass in a common excavation in the 1st 2 abdominal sterna (covered by hairs). Length ranges from 1.3 to 2.5 mm.

Identification Tips

Look for the fringe of long golden hairs on the 1st abdominal sternum and the oval, convex shape.

Habitat

At margins of standing or running water; usually buried in wet sand or mud.

Distribution

Found across North America, with higher diversity in the western regions, and also known from much of the world.

Ecosystem Role

As scavenger beetles, they play a role in the decomposition of organic material in aquatic habitats.