Downes' Green Lacewing vs Giant Black Water Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Downes' Green Lacewing Giant Black Water Beetle
Scientific Name Chrysoperla downesi Hydrophilus triangularis
Order Neuroptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysopidae Hydrophilidae
Size 12-18 mm wingspan 34-40 mm
Habitat Forests Ponds & Lakes
Diet Predators Predators
Regions North America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Downes' Green Lacewing

A conifer-associated green lacewing that retains its green color through winter. Unlike relatives, it does not turn brown in cold months.

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Did You Know?

It stays green year-round, while most related species change to brown or tan in winter.

Giant Black Water Beetle

The largest water beetle in North America, with a shiny black oval body. Larvae are voracious predators while adults are mainly plant feeders.

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Did You Know?

It carries a bubble of air beneath its body like a silvery film, which it replenishes at the surface.