Whirligig Beetle
Scientific Name:
Gyrinidae
Type:
Insect
Habitat:
Freshwater, coastal, and wetland habitats; Often seen spiraling around the surface of bodies of water
Range:
Widespread
Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
This species is
NATIVE
to the Truckee Meadows.
Identification:
Most species are very similar in appearance. They have shiny black bodies that are oval in shape. Antennae are short and clubbed, distinguishable from all other beetles. Whirligig beetles have two sets of compound eyes-one above the water and one below. Back legs are short, flat, and paddle-like, allowing for greater mobility in the water.
Fast Facts:
Whirligigs carry an air bubble at the tip of their abdomen, which allows them to stay submerged for longer periods of time.
These beetles are extremely good swimmers, yet they possess a pair of well-developed wings that are hidden under thick, shieldlike forewings, enabling them to fly to a new home if their pond or stream dries up.
These beetles are carnivorous, and often feed on aquatic insect larvae and land insects that fall into the water. Whirligigs locate these unlucky insects by utilizing a simple form of radar, in this case, using waves caused by the struggling insect.
Whirligigs play a vital role in the regulation of aquatic invertebrate populations. By using these organisms as a food source, they prevent the overpopulation of invasive or harmful species, working to keep ecosystems balanced.
Sources:
Whirligig beetle | The Wildlife Trusts. (n.d.). Www.wildlifetrusts.org. https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/invertebrates/beetles/whirligig-beetle
Whirligig Beetles. (n.d.). Missouri Department of Conservation. https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/whirligig-beetles
Whirligig Beetle: Identification, Life Cycle, Damage, Treatment, FAQs. (2024). Exploring the Fascinating World of Insects - Entomologist.net. https://entomologist.net/beetles/107-gyrinus-substriatus.html
Contributor(s):
Katie Quinlivan, research & content
Kevin Lynch, web edits