Description

Body length 2.0 to 4.0mm. A variable beetle that might be light brown or grey. The pronotum lateral edges are smoothly convex and the pronotum is iridescent with sinuous grooves from front to back. The elytra are marked with darker patches and heavily punctured in longitudinal rows.

Habitat

Water margins and stagnant pools that are well vegetated, the adults can often be found on the marginal vegetation. The larvae live in the wet soil beside the water, feeding on small soil organisms.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread throughout Britain, our commonest water beetle. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

June and July.