Hydrophilus palpalis is a species of water scavenger beetles belonging to the Hydrophilinae subfamily.
Файл:Hydrophilus palpalis.jpgHydrophilus palpalis. Illustration from Voyage dans l'Amérique Méridionale (1835) by Alcide d'Orbigny
Some authors have included this species in a distinct genus (Diboloceus), but most of them consider Diboloceus just a subgenus of Hydrophilus (Hydrophilus (Dibolocelus) palpalis).[1][2]
This large species has an oval and moderately convex body. The basic color of the body is dark brown or black. Antennae are 9-segmented. Prosternum is well developed, divided into two lobes. Elytra show ten extremely fine striae. Hind femora are glabrous.[1][2]
These beetles are adapted for aquatic life. The first-stage larvae and the adults are excellent swimmers. Adults are mainly vegetarian while the larvae are carnivorous and have a preference for molluscs.[3]
Distribution and habitat
This species can be found in South America in aquatic habitat, especially in rice cultivations (Oryza sativa).[4][5]
Bibliography
Marcia Maria Dosciatti de Oliveira - Hydrophilus (Dibolocelus) palpalis Brullé, 1838 (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae) – Ciclo vital y datos biogeográficos sobre las otras especies del subgênero
