Hydrotarsus compunctus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hydrotarsus compunctus |
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Hydrotarsus
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H. compunctus
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| Hydrotarsus compunctus (Wollaston, 1865)
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Hydrotarsus compunctus is a special type of beetle that belongs to the Dytiscidae family. These beetles are often called "diving beetles" because they are excellent swimmers! This particular species is found only in the Canary Islands, which means it is endemic there. It was first described in 1865 by Thomas Vernon Wollaston.
Contents
What is Hydrotarsus compunctus?
Hydrotarsus compunctus is a small insect that lives in water. Like other diving beetles, it has a smooth, oval-shaped body. This shape helps it move easily through the water. Its legs are also specially adapted for swimming. They are flat and fringed, like tiny paddles.
These beetles are part of the larger group of insects called Coleoptera, which are beetles. Beetles are known for their hard outer wings, called elytra. These wings protect their delicate flying wings underneath.
Where Does It Live?
Hydrotarsus compunctus is found only on the Canary Islands. These islands are located off the northwest coast of Africa. The beetle lives in freshwater habitats. This includes places like ponds, slow-moving streams, and even temporary pools of water.
Its specific habitat is very important for its survival. It needs clean, shallow water with plenty of plants. These plants provide places to hide and hunt. Being endemic means it doesn't live anywhere else in the world. This makes it very unique and important to protect.
What Does It Eat?
Diving beetles, including Hydrotarsus compunctus, are usually predators. This means they hunt and eat other smaller creatures. In their watery homes, they might feed on tiny aquatic insects. They also eat small tadpoles or larvae of other insects.
They are important parts of their ecosystem. By eating smaller animals, they help keep the balance of life in their freshwater habitats. Both the adult beetles and their larvae are often hunters.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Like all insects, Hydrotarsus compunctus goes through different life stages. This process is called metamorphosis. It starts as an egg, which is laid in the water. The eggs hatch into larvae.
The larvae are often long and worm-like. They live in the water and are also predators. After growing and molting several times, the larva will change into a pupa. This stage might happen in the water or on land near the water. Finally, the pupa transforms into an adult beetle. The adult beetle then lives in the water, ready to reproduce and start the cycle again.
Why Is It Critically Endangered?
The conservation status of Hydrotarsus compunctus is listed as "Critically Endangered" (CR). This is a very serious warning. It means the species faces an extremely high risk of becoming extinct in the wild.
There are several reasons why a species can become endangered. For this beetle, it's likely due to habitat loss or pollution. If the freshwater ponds and streams in the Canary Islands are damaged or disappear, the beetle has nowhere to live. Protecting its unique home is key to helping this special beetle survive.
See also
In Spanish: Hydroporus compunctus para niños
