Gyrinidae

Pronunciation
/JIR-in-ID-ee/
Category
Taxonomy
Singular
Gyrinid
Plural
Gyrinidae

Definition

A family of water beetles known as whirligigs, characterized by their flattened bodies and powerful legs.

Full guide

Read the full Gyrinidae guide for identification, examples, and taxonomy.

Etymology

From Greek 'gyrin-', meaning 'spinning' or 'whirling', referring to their swimming motion.

Example

The Gyrinidae are commonly found in ponds and lakes, where they are voracious predators of other aquatic insects.

Related Terms