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Sunburst Diving Beetle

Geographical Range Southwestern United States, Mexico
Habitat Ponds
Scientific Name Thermonectus marmoratus
Conservation Status Not listed by IUCN

These beautiful little water beetles from the southwest United States look like a living fireworks display. Their golden spots warn predators that they can protect themselves by releasing a nasty-tasting chemical. Sunburst diving beetles make their home in quiet pools, where they are natural "scuba divers." They stay under water for several minutes at a time, breathing with the help of a tiny bubble of air that they collect at the water's surface.