Why Record Water Beetles?
Your observations are vital for conservation and research
Build Knowledge
Accurate records are fundamental to understanding beetle distributions, ecology, and conservation needs across Britain and Ireland.
Support Research
Your data contributes to scientific studies that help protect aquatic coleoptera and their habitats for future generations.
Monitor Change
Track population trends and habitat changes to inform conservation strategies and environmental policy decisions.
What Makes a Good Record?
The essential elements: Who, What, Where, and When
Species Identification
Always use scientific names following the Checklist of Beetles of the British Isles, Third Edition (Duff, 2018).
- Include family name for easy sorting
- Common names can be added separately
- For difficult species, retain voucher specimens
Location Details
Precise locality information enables record validation and habitat analysis.
- Use specific place names (e.g., "Berrow Dunes" not "Berrow")
- Include OS grid reference (6-figure minimum)
- Record vice-county name and number
Date & Method
Accurate timing helps understand beetle ecology and seasonal patterns.
- Use dd/mm/yyyy format (e.g., 05/09/2021)
- For traps: record start and end dates
- Note collection method (sweep net, pitfall trap, etc.)
- Include habitat description
Recorder Information
Clear attribution ensures data quality and enables follow-up questions.
- Recorder name (you)
- Finder (if different person)
- Determiner (if expert verification)
- Observation type (voucher specimen, photograph, etc.)
Recording Tools & Resources
Everything you need to start recording effectively
iRecord App
Record directly in the field using the official iRecord smartphone app. Instantly capture location data and upload photos.
Get iRecord →Recording Spreadsheet
Download our standardised Excel template for maintaining your beetle records offline before batch uploading.
Download Template →Identification Help
Send specimens to ACCT experts who can verify difficult identifications and provide professional guidance on water beetle species.
Send Specimen to ACCT →Getting Records Verified
Ensuring accuracy for rare and difficult species
When verification is needed:
- Rare or nationally scarce species
- Species new to your recording area
- Difficult identification groups
- Unusual habitat records
Supporting evidence:
- Photographs: Multiple angles, clear diagnostic features
- Voucher specimens: Preserved specimens for expert examination
- Detailed notes: Habitat, behaviour, associated species
- Location data: Precise grid references and site descriptions
Submit Your Records
Help build our understanding of water beetle distributions
iRecord - Recommended
The preferred method for submitting beetle records. Your data automatically flows to:
- NBN Atlas (Britain & Isle of Man)
- National Biodiversity Data Centre (Ireland)
- Local Environmental Records Centres
- Specialist recording schemes
- County recorders
Alternative Methods:
Ready to Start Recording?
Every observation contributes to water beetle conservation. Join our community of citizen scientists making a difference.