What it looks like: 5.1-6.4 mm in length. Its body is oval-shaped and robust with a dark brown head and light tan shoulders. The elytra are mottled and dark brown. It has powerful hind legs used for swimming.

Where you'll find it: This species can be found throughout North America. Our only subspecies, Laccophilus maculosus decipiens occurs from British Columbia down to Baja California.

Natural History: These water beetles occur in shallow, sunny pools in forested or grassland regions. They live among rooted vegetation or ponds covered in algae.