Occurrence of burrowing water beetle (Neohydrocoptus subvittulus) in the small pond from Lucknow city

Neohydrocoptus subvittulus (Motschulsky, 1859), a burrowing water beetle (family Noteridae), plays a vital role in freshwater ecosystems, yet its presence and ecological significance remain poorly explored in urban environments. The present study investigates the occurrence of the Neohydrocoptus subvittulus within a small urban pond located in Lucknow city. Neohydrocoptus subvittulus, known for its adaptability to diverse aquatic environments, was documented in this isolated pond, expanding its known distribution in the northern plains of India. The beetle was found in association with dense aquatic vegetation and stable water conditions, suggesting suitable microhabitat availability. The occurrence of burrowing water beetles in Lucknow highlights their ecological adaptability and the crucial role of small urban water bodies in conserving aquatic biodiversity, water quality, and pond vegetation, which significantly influence the occurrence of Neohydrocoptus subvittulus.