Giant Water Scavenger Beetles

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hydrophilus: /hɪˈdrɒfɪləs/

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Summary

The genus Hydrophilus includes several species of giant water scavenger beetles, notable for their size and ecological role as scavengers in aquatic habitats. They can be found in various regions across the Americas and Eurasia, with a typical lifespan exceeding one year.

Physical Characteristics

Hydrophilus are the largest members of the Hydrophilidae family, reaching lengths greater than 30 mm, with species in this genus recorded up to 40 mm and extralimital species up to around 50 mm.

Identification Tips

Key to species can be found in reference literature, particularly focusing on morphological traits and size.

Habitat

These beetles prefer stagnant or slow waters, favoring deeper water bodies such as weedy ponds and deep drainage ditches.

Distribution

Found in the New World (including the contiguous United States, southern Canada, and Mexico) and Eurasia.

Diet

Hydrophilus are scavengers, feeding on organic material found in their aquatic habitats.

Life Cycle

Females deposit up to 140 eggs in a cocoon-like case, where they undergo pupation in moist soil. There are typically 1–2 generations per year.

Reproduction

The reproductive strategy involves the female laying eggs in a protective case, often containing a 'mast' for the larvae.

Ecosystem Role

They play a significant role in aquatic ecosystems as scavengers, contributing to the breakdown of organic material.

Tags

• Hydrophilus
• Giant Water Scavenger Beetle
• Hydrophilidae
• Aquatic Beetles