Dytiscus alaskanus is a Wisconsin Special Concern predaceous diving beetle found in permanent ponds and lakes. They have flat, oval bodies, and are 22.6-30.2mm long. Predaceous diving beetles (Dytiscidae) typically reside in shallow and highly vegetated bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, and streams. They are active during the day and spend most of their time below the surface. Eggs are laid on plant stems and leaves in the spring and summer and larvae hatch within 1-2 weeks. Larvae pupate along the water's edge in logs and damp soil. Adults emerge from mid-July to late-September. Adults can fly and may disperse to permanent, deeper ponds for the winter, where they may remain active under the ice.
