| DESCRIPTION |
 |
Dytiscids have well developed hair fringes on their tibiae and tarsi and
have a streamlined shape. They are superficially similar to the
Hydrophilidae,
but may be distinguished from that family by their well developed, and easily
seen antennae. Hydrophilidae have much less conspicuous antennae. Also,
Dytiscidae and
Hydrophilidae
usually differ in profile with dytiscids tending to have a more equally convex
dorsum and sternum while hydrophilids are usually much more convex dorsally
than ventrally.
Dytiscids are aquatic predators in both the larval and adult stages. They
prey on other small aquatic animals. The larvae have mandibles with a channel
that they use in feeding in a manner similar to that of the
Neuroptera.