A close look at the larvae shows a mean looking predator! It has large mouth parts and a curved body shape that resembles a preying mantis. The larvae can grow up to 50mm in length. The adults in contrast are shiny beetles with streamlined bodies, designed to dive through water. They are dark brown or black in colour with yellow legs and a yellow edge around their head and thorax
Diving beetle larvae often live in deep water where they hang from the surface film.
The larva dangles from the surface film with its legs stretched out to the side and its vicious mandibles pointing forward ready to attack its prey. It is a powerful predator that injects poison into its prey disabling it and partially digesting its victim. It is also a very good swimmer. The adult beetles have an inbuilt defence mechanism. When they are attacked they let out a foul-smelling liquid from their anus which stops potential predators from eating them!
Carnivore - Both the adults and larvae are effective predators eating invertebrates and small fish.
Unfortunately there are lots of pressures being placed on the freshwater habitats of the National Park. When water is taken from the rivers this reduces their flow and has an impact on the plants and animals that can survive.
Why not help save water – turn taps off when cleaning your teeth or install a water butt in the garden!