The beetle uses in its principal eyes two retinas and two distinct focal planes that are substantially separated, in the manner of bifocals to switch their vision from up-close to distance, for easy and efficient capture of their prey.

The sunburst diving beetle has a black and streamlined carapace covered with bright yellow or golden spots.

[8][9] The sunburst diving beetle's distinctive yellow spots on a black background serve as a warning sign to predators that the insect can release a foul tasting chemical.

[1][8] The diving beetle swims by thrusting its hind legs simultaneously, and can remain underwater for extended periods of time by storing an air bubble beneath its wings.

[16] They inhabit various slow-moving freshwater habitats, especially shallow, temporary or intermittent pools and creeks (arroyos) with little or no aquatic vegetation.

Eggs that are laid by the mother are initially 3.5 to 4 mm in length and lack pigmentation or any special features – causing them to be white and opaque.

[19] Scientists have discovered the larval visual system of Thermonectus marmoratus have incredibly complex eyes that resemble a camera's bifocal capabilities.

[20] Early in the organism's development, there are many conserved functions and cell lineages between the diving beetle and other insect species such as the fly (Drosophila).

Scientists theorize that this functions in filling the gap in vision at the top of the head, and can alert the beetle larva of a change in light – which may be indicative of an overhead predator.