Predaceous Diving Beetles

LIVE PREDACEOUS DIVING BEETLES

Aquatic Insect Predators from the Family Dytiscidae
Vibrant, active, and utterly lethal — these beetles are as fascinating as they are ferocious. These aquatic beetles are the torpedoes of the insect world — fast, air-breathing predators with a thirst for motion... and meat.

APPEARANCE

• Streamlined, oval-shaped body
• Glossy black, brown, or bronze carapace (species dependent)
• Powerful, paddle-like hind legs adapted for swimming
• Adults range in size from 1 to 3 cm
• Some species display metallic or iridescent coloration

HABITAT

• Native to ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams
• Thrive in still or gently flowing freshwater with aquatic vegetation
• Require access to the surface for air (they store air under their wing covers)

BEHAVIOR

• Aggressive hunters — both adults and larvae (called “water tigers”)
• Strong swimmers using rhythmic strokes of their hind legs
• Adults can fly and are attracted to light at night
• Solitary, territorial, and best kept individually or in large tanks

DIET

• Carnivorous: will eat insect larvae, small fish, tadpoles, shrimp, and even other beetles
• Larvae have sickle-shaped mandibles to inject digestive enzymes
• Feed 2–3 times a week; remove uneaten prey to maintain water quality

CARE TIPS

• Tank size: 1 gallon or larger per beetle
• Water: Clean, dechlorinated; temperature 65–75°F (18–24°C)
• Provide floating plants or surfaces for beetles to rest and breathe
• Use a secure lid 
• Avoid housing with small fish or slow-moving tank mates (they will be eaten)

These aren’t bugs for your backyard. These are high-octane insect predators for your inner naturalist.