Atractelmis

Atractelmis is a genus of riffle beetles in the family Elmidae. The genus is monotypic, the sole species being Atractelmis wawona, also known as the Wawona riffle beetle. It is endemic to the Western United States between California, Oregon, and Idaho. The specific name wawona refers to its Type [locality (biology)|type locality], Wawona in the Yosemite National Park.

Habitat

Atractelmis wawona occur in riffles of rapid clear mountain streams at above [sea level]. Adults and larvae occur in the same microhabitats and are typically found in aquatic mosses, particularly Platyhypnidium riparioides. These beetles are easily overlooked but can be locally numerous.

Description

Adults measure about in length and in width. They are shiny black above with four red spots on the elytra. The larvae can grow to in length.