Hydrophilus triangularis
Say, 1823
Giant Water Scavenger Beetle, giant black water beetle, giant water scavenger
Hydrophilus triangularis is a large water scavenger beetle and the most common and widespread of Hydrophilus in North America. It inhabits standing freshwater including ponds, lakes, and livestock watering troughs. The species has been documented across the contiguous United States, southern Canada, and Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hydrophilus triangularis: /haɪˈdrɒfɪləs traɪˌæŋɡjəˈlɛrɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
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Habitat
Standing freshwater including ponds, lakes, and artificial water sources such as livestock watering troughs.
Distribution
Contiguous United States, southern Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan), and Mexico. GBIF records also indicate Pleistocene-era presence in California.
More Details
Taxonomic note
Catalogue of Life lists this as a synonym, though GBIF and other sources treat it as accepted. This may reflect ongoing taxonomic revision.
Observation frequency
iNaturalist records over 2,800 observations, indicating this is a frequently encountered by citizen scientists.