Hydrophilus palpalis is a species of water scavenger beetles belonging to the Hydrophilinae subfamily.

[1][2] This large species has an oval and moderately convex body.

The basic color of the body is dark brown or black.

Elytra show ten extremely fine striae.

[3] This species can be found in South America in aquatic habitat, especially in rice cultivations (Oryza sativa).