File: <GYRIN1.IMA>

Immature Stages of Gyrinidae

Detailed information on immature stages of Gyrinidae is being acquired. However, Clausen (1940) noted that the larvae of the Awhirligig beetles@ are strictly predaceous and feed on the body fluids of almost any form of animal life in the aquatic environment. The eggs are laid in masses, often arranged in rows, on the surface of submerged foliage. Incubation is complete in 1-2 weeks.

In some species the pupal case, which may be built up from a wide variety of material, is constructed by the mature larva either on the ground or on plant stems or leaves above the water surface.