Predaceous Diving Beetles
Predaceous Diving Beetles
Predaceous Diving Beetles

Predaceous Diving Beetles

Regular price
$29.99
Regular price
Sale price
$29.99
Unit price
per 
Availability
Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

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.

x

x