Notonectidae

Common name

Backswimmers

Overview

Notonectidae, commonly known as backswimmers, are a family of aquatic insects renowned for their distinctive swimming behavior. These predators primarily inhabit freshwater environments and can be found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats around the world.

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Body shape: Elongated and streamlined
  • Size: Typically range from 3 to 15 mm in length
  • Color: Often pale or dark brown, with an underside that may be lighter to aid in camouflage
  • Legs: The hind legs are long and oar-like, adapted for swimming
  • Wings: Fully developed in adults, they can fly between water bodies

Life Cycle

  1. Egg Stage: Eggs are laid on aquatic plants or submerged objects
  2. Nymph Stage: Nymphs resemble adults but without fully developed wings, undergoing several molts
  3. Adult Stage: Fully developed with wings and reproductive organs

Behavior and Ecology

  • Feeding: Predatory diet consisting of small aquatic organisms such as insects, larvae, and occasionally small fish
  • Habitat: Prefers still or slow-moving freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and marshes
  • Swimming: Characterized by their habit of swimming upside down, using their hind legs to propel themselves

Notable Species

  • Notonecta glauca: Common in Europe and renowned for its strong swimming ability
  • Buenoa margaritacea: Found in North and South America, known for its bioluminescence

Conservation

Generally, Notonectidae are not considered endangered. However, their populations can be affected by water pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change.

Significance to Humans

  • Pest Control: They help control populations of mosquito larvae and other aquatic pests
  • Aquatic Health Indicators: Serve as indicators of a healthy aquatic ecosystem

Fun Facts

  • Upward Swimmers: They swim upside down, which is the origin of their common name, backswimmers.
  • Painful Bite: Though not dangerous to humans, their bite can be quite painful.
  • Air Storage: They trap air underneath their wings, which allows them to stay submerged longer.
  • Widespread Distribution: Found on every continent except Antarctica.
  • Seasonal Flyers: They are capable fliers and often move to new water bodies during summer or when their habitat dries up.