What it looks like: 4.9-5.5 mm in length. Its body is shiny black and oval-shaped. Its antennae are reddish-yellow and its legs are dark reddish-brown.

Where you'll find it: This species can be found from southwestern British Columbia down to California.

Natural History: These water beetles have been collected in a variety of habitats from mountain streams to coastal springs. However, they are rarely abundant. They have been found in pools with high concentrations of toxins and pollutants, indicating that they are adaptable.