πŸͺ² Beetles

Water Scavenger Beetle

Hydrophilus piceus

Near Threatened

About 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.

How to Identify Water Scavenger Beetle

Water Scavenger Beetle (Hydrophilus piceus) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Hydrophilidae. Adults typically measure 34-48 mm.

Water Scavenger Beetle Habitat

Water Scavenger Beetle is found in ponds & lakes habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Water Scavenger Beetle Diet and Feeding

Water Scavenger Beetle is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.

Where Is Water Scavenger Beetle Found?

Water Scavenger Beetle can be found in Europe, Asia, where it inhabits ponds & lakes environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Water Scavenger Beetle can be found

Is Water Scavenger Beetle Dangerous?

Water Scavenger Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.

Water Scavenger Beetle Role in Nature

Water Scavenger Beetle is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.

Seasonal Activity

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Scavenger Beetle

What does Water Scavenger Beetle look like?

The Water Scavenger Beetle typically measures 34-48 mm.

Where is Water Scavenger Beetle found?

The Water Scavenger Beetle is found in Europe, Asia and typically inhabits ponds & lakes environments.

What does Water Scavenger Beetle eat?

The Water Scavenger Beetle feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.

Is Water Scavenger Beetle dangerous to humans?

The Water Scavenger Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.

Is Water Scavenger Beetle endangered?

The Water Scavenger Beetle is currently classified as Near Threatened by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.

What is an interesting fact about Water Scavenger Beetle?

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

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Water Scavenger Beetle (Hydrophilus piceus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/water-scavenger-beetle

MLA:
"Water Scavenger Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/water-scavenger-beetle.