How Do Water Beetles Breathe Underwater?

Insects don’t have gills, but some, like water beetles, are able to breathe underwater. What gives?

The above video from KQED’s Deep Look YouTube channel shows how predaceous diving beetles literally take air with them when they go underwater. Harnessing surface tension, the beetles are able to cart air bubbles like a SCUBA tank. While the bubble may look small to us, it has enough air to keep the beetle alive for a substantial amount of time—some aquatic beetles are able to spend their entire lives underwater.

To find out more, watch the video above, and check out KQED's report on "nature's SCUBA divers."

Banner images via KQED Deep Look // YouTube.

[h/t KQED]