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Predaceous diving beetle

Predaceous diving beetle

Thermonectus basillaris

A species of Thermonectus

The predaceous diving beetle (Thermonectus basillaris) is a pitch-black, pill-shaped bug that looks a bit rusty. The name is earned from its ability to dive an expand its mandibles in an attempt to catch its prey. Its prey is mostly located around freshwater locations, explaining the need to dive.

General Info About Predaceous diving beetle
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Attributes of Predaceous diving beetle
Colors
Brown
Habitat
pond
Adult Food Sources
Other insects, small fish, tadpoles, aquatic invertebrates, insect larvae
Larva Food Source
Aquatic invertebrates, tadpoles, fish larvae, other aquatic insect larvae, small crustaceans
Non-poisonous
The Predaceous diving beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Predaceous diving beetle feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
The Predaceous diving beetle typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Predaceous diving beetle
It is native to the eastern United States, southern Ontario, Canada, and Cuba.
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Distribution Area of Predaceous diving beetle
Eastern United States, southern Ontario, Canada and Cuba
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Appearance of Predaceous diving beetle
Adults are 8 - 11 mm long and 5 - 6 mm wide.
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How to Identify Predaceous diving beetle?

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Life Cycle of Predaceous diving beetle
Egg The predaceous diving beetle starts as an egg, often laid in clusters. The eggs are small, typically oval, and may vary in color. At this stage, the predaceous diving beetle is immobile and vulnerable, developing until ready to hatch.
Larva Upon hatching, the predaceous diving beetle enters the larval stage, characterized by a worm-like appearance with a distinct head and segmented body. The predaceous diving beetle will eat voraciously, increasing in size and periodically molting its exoskeleton.
Pupal The predaceous diving beetle forms a pupa after numerous molts and significant growth. The pupal stage is a time of transformation where the predaceous diving beetle is immobile and protected by a pupal case as its body reorganizes.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult predaceous diving beetle’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Predaceous diving beetle
8 - 11 mm
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Predators of Predaceous diving beetle Larvae
Aquatic insects, fish, amphibians, birds
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Scientific Classification of Predaceous diving beetle
Tips for Finding Predaceous diving beetle
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Adult Habitat of Predaceous diving beetle
Freshwater Habitats
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Habitat Preferences of Predaceous diving beetle Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of predaceous diving beetle are typically deposited on submerged vegetation in freshwater habitats, such as ponds or slow-moving streams. Larvae are aquatic predators found hiding near or within the vegetation, or sometimes in sediment on the water body floor, awaiting prey. When searching for pupae, one should look in moist soil or detritus near the edge of the water body, where larvae emerge to pupate. Adults of predaceous diving beetle are frequently observed swimming in open water or resting on floating vegetation and are known for their diving capabilities, often found at various depths.
Are Predaceous diving beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Predaceous diving beetle
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Predaceous diving beetle is an aquatic predator known for its voracious appetite during both larval and adult stages. These beetles actively hunt their prey, which includes the larvae of other insects, small fish, and tadpoles. Their predation helps control aquatic pest populations. A little-known fact about predaceous diving beetle is that they can capture prey several times their size.
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