Broad-shouldered Diving Beetle vs Flame Skimmer

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Broad-shouldered Diving Beetle Flame Skimmer
Scientific Name Dytiscus latissimus Libellula saturata
Order Coleoptera Odonata
Family Dytiscidae Libellulidae
Size 36-44 mm 65-72 mm wingspan
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Predators
Regions Northern Europe, Scandinavia North America
Conservation Vulnerable Least Concern

Broad-shouldered Diving Beetle

The largest European diving beetle and one of the largest aquatic beetles in the world. It inhabits clean, fish-poor lakes and is increasingly rare.

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Did You Know?

It is protected under the EU Habitats Directive and is one of the most endangered beetles in Europe.

Flame Skimmer

A brilliantly red-orange dragonfly found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Males are unmistakable with their entirely flame-colored body and wings.

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Did You Know?

Flame skimmers are frequently attracted to swimming pools and hot tubs, which they mistake for warm natural springs ideal for breeding.