Crawling water beetles
Scientific name: Haliplidae
Crawling water beetles
Scientific name: Haliplidae
Description
Diving under the surface of freshwater habitats, members of the family Haliplidae are fascinating beetles often overlooked due to their small size and secretive nature. What makes Haliplidae extraordinary is their ability to utilize plastron respiration, a unique adaptation wherein they trap a thin layer of air against their hydrophobic body surface, allowing them to extract dissolved oxygen directly from the water, essentially breathing underwater. Contrary to the often assumed simplicity of water beetle life, Haliplidae exhibit complex behaviors and life cycles intricately tied to the aquatic plant community, showcasing an exceptional adaptation and interdependence.
Species of Crawling water beetles
Scientific Classification
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