Predaceous Diving Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Stagnant or slow-moving freshwater such as ponds, marshes, and drainage ditches.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; they eat other aquatic insects, tadpoles, and small fish using hollow mandibles to inject digestive enzymes.

Behavior Patterns

Often nicknamed 'Water Tigers', these larvae are aggressive ambush predators. They must surface to breathe by taking in air through spiracles at the end of their abdomen. They undergo complete metamorphosis into aquatic beetles.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling mosquito populations. While not dangerous to humans, they can deliver a painful bite if handled.

Identified on: 5/24/2026