The family Dryopidae represents a relatively small group of beetles associated primarily with freshwater environments and their immediate surroundings. Although the adults are referred to as water beetles, most species are unable to swim actively. Instead, they move along submerged branches, stones, plants or organic debris, clinging firmly to these surfaces using their conspicuously elongated claws on their feet. Dense hydrophobic hairs on the underside of their bodies enable them to form an air film (plastron), allowing them to breathe underwater for extended periods. Conversely, the larvae of most species live in moist soil, wood or litter along watercourses, and only a few genera are aquatic throughout their entire life cycle. The family is found almost worldwide, with the exception of Australia and Antarctica, and the greatest species diversity is found in the tropics. In Central Europe, the Dryopidae are among the less numerous families of beetles; nevertheless, they form a significant part of the communities in clear flowing and standing waters, and some species serve as bioindicators of well-preserved aquatic ecosystems.

Number of Species:

Family Card

Dryops anglicanus

 

Dryops auriculatus

 

Dryops ernesti

 

Dryops griseus

 

Dryops luridus

 

Dryops lutulentus

 

Dryops nitidulus

 

Dryops rufipes

 

Dryops similaris

 

Dryops striatopunctatus

 

Dryops viennensis

 

Pomatinus substriatus