Tropisternus glaber

Also known as Smooth Water Scavenger Beetle

Smooth water scavenger beetles propel themselves through quiet freshwater using alternating strokes of their hair-fringed hind legs. Adults carry a silvery film of air trapped against dense hydrofuge hairs on their undersides, allowing them to remain submerged while grazing on algae and dead organic matter. During warm summer nights, these strong fliers readily disperse between ponds and frequently gather around artificial lights.