Which larval structure allows some diving beetles to breathe while remaining mostly submerged?

Answer

Posterior siphon

A highly specialized adaptation found in the larvae of certain diving beetles is the posterior siphon, which acts as a dedicated breathing tube. This siphon is physically located at the tip of the larva's abdomen and can be extended upward through the water surface to access the atmosphere for air intake. This mechanism grants a significant tactical advantage to these predatory larvae because it permits the majority of their segmented body to remain concealed underwater, hidden from potential threats or allowing them to wait undetected for unsuspecting prey to pass by. This method of respiration is distinct from the adult strategy of trapping a general air bubble beneath the elytra, and importantly, the larvae of the Giant Water Scavenger Beetle are specifically noted to lack this siphon.

Which larval structure allows some diving beetles to breathe while remaining mostly submerged?

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insectaquaticcharacteristicwater beetle