Water Scavenger Beetle vs Pennsylvania Ground Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Water Scavenger Beetle Pennsylvania Ground Beetle
Scientific Name Hydrophilus piceus Harpalus pensylvanicus
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Hydrophilidae Carabidae
Size 34-48 mm 13-17 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Farmland
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia North America
Conservation Near Threatened Least Concern

Water Scavenger Beetle

One of the largest European water beetles, with a glossy black, boat-shaped body. Despite its name, it is largely herbivorous as an adult.

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Did You Know?

It carries air under its body in a silvery film, giving it a shimmering appearance underwater.

Pennsylvania Ground Beetle

One of the most common ground beetles in North American croplands. It is an omnivorous species that feeds on both seeds and small insects.

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Did You Know?

Studies show it can consume enough weed seeds to significantly reduce weed emergence in crop fields.