Derallus

Sharp, 1882

Species Guides

1

Derallus is a of water scavenger beetles ( Hydrophilidae, tribe Berosini) containing approximately six described . The genus is Neotropical in distribution, with species ranging from Guatemala to Argentina. One species, D. angustus, has been studied in detail regarding its and in permanent ponds.

Derallus altus by (c) Matthew Pintar, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matthew Pintar. Used under a CC-BY license.Derallus altus by (c) Matthew Pintar, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matthew Pintar. Used under a CC-BY license.Derallus altus by (c) Matthew Pintar, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matthew Pintar. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Derallus: //dɛˈræləs//

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Images

Habitat

Aquatic environments, specifically permanent ponds. within this are associated with aquatic vegetation and macrophytes, which influence abundance and distribution by modifying structure.

Distribution

Neotropical region. D. angustus specifically ranges from Guatemala to Argentina. Documented occurrence in Colombia (Amazonas, Arauca, Atlántico, Bolívar, Boyacá, Chocó, Guaviare, Santander departments) and Argentina (Corrientes and Buenos Aires provinces).

Seasonality

D. angustus shows first instar larval peaks at end of spring and end of summer; and third instar larvae present year-round.

Life Cycle

; . Two periods of enhanced reproductive activity. First instar larvae peak at end of spring and end of summer. and third instar larvae present throughout the year. Pupae not studied.

Behavior

Microhabitat use varies by ; spatial distribution patterns differ from co-occurring hydrophilid species such as Enochrus vulgaris. Distribution within ponds related to homogeneity or heterogeneity.

Ecological Role

Contributes to pond dynamics. Macrophytes favor or limit abundance by modifying structure, indicating a responsive relationship between these beetles and aquatic vegetation structure.

Similar Taxa

  • EnochrusCo-occurs in permanent ponds; D. angustus shows different spatial distribution patterns and microhabitat preferences compared to Enochrus vulgaris, allowing ecological differentiation despite similar use.

More Details

Species diversity

Approximately six described : D. altus, D. ambitus, D. angustus, D. intermedius, D. rudis, and D. terraenovae.

Research focus

Most detailed ecological studies focus on D. angustus; information for other Derallus is sparse.

Sources and further reading