The Family Gyrinidae is better known as the water beetle family and is characterized by their ability to swim on the surface of water using their unique swimming legs. Synonyms for this family include the whirligig beetle family, the whirlabout beetle family, the water skater beetle family, and the whirling beetle family. These beetles are found in freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and streams, and are known for their circular movements on the surface of the water. They are important members of aquatic ecosystems as they prey on other small aquatic organisms and are preyed upon by larger predators.