A small aquatic predatory beetle species belonging to the Dytiscidae family, native to European freshwater ecosystems.
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ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Freshwater environments including ponds, slow-moving streams, marshes, and temporary water bodies with abundant aquatic vegetation
Ecological Role
Critical role in aquatic ecosystem food webs as a predatory invertebrate, controlling populations of smaller aquatic organisms and serving as prey for larger predators
Morphology
SKIN COATHard exoskeleton with water-repellent cuticle
LIMBS WINGSSpecialized hydrofuge hind legs with swimming adaptations for efficient aquatic locomotion
HEAD SENSORYCompound eyes, sensitive antennae for detecting prey and environmental cues
BODY STRUCTUREOval, streamlined body adapted for swimming, typically 5-7 mm in length, dark brown to black coloration
