PROTECTING WISCONSIN'S BIODIVERSITY

 
 
 
   
 
Scientific Name Common Name Global Rank State Rank Federal Status WI Status Animal Group

A Water Scavenger Beetle (Helophorus latipenis)

 

 

 

 

 

10824.jpg

 

No NHI Occurrences Mapped

Helophorus latipenis is a Wisconsin Special Concern water scavenger beetle that occurs in shallow woodland ponds and margins of streams. It has been documented in the northern two-thirds of Wisconsin. Water scavenger beetles (Hydrophilidae) can be found in a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Though they are largely herbivorous, many species will eat dead animal tissue. Members of the Helophorus genus are dull in color and can often be found clinging to vegetation. They somewhat resemble riffle beetles. Adults are 3-7mm long.

 
 
 

Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) are associated with habitats (or natural communities) and places on the landscape. Understanding relationships among SGCN, natural communities and ecological landscapes help us make decisions about issues affecting SGCN and their habitat and how to respond. Download the Wildlife Action Plan association score spreadsheet to explore rare species, natural communities and ecological landscape associations

Conservation actions respond to issues or threats, which adversely affect species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) or their habitats. Besides actions such as restoring wetlands or planting resilient tree species in northern communities, research, surveys and monitoring are also among conservation actions described in the Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan because lack of information can threaten our ability to successfully preserve and care for natural resources.