Backswimmers

Pronunciation: /BAK-swim-ers/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Backswimmer

Plural: Backswimmers

Definition

Aquatic predatory insects in the (order ) that swim upside-down using a backstroke-like motion of their fringed hind legs. They are distinguished from similar water boatmen () by their convex, lightly colored dorsum, non-scoop-shaped front , and exclusively predatory habits. Backswimmers range from 0.5 to 1.5 cm and occur worldwide in freshwater .

Etymology

From their characteristic supine swimming posture, resembling a human backstroke.

Example

The common backswimmer Notonecta glauca hunts mosquito larvae and other small aquatic prey while swimming inverted just below the water surface, using its long hind legs as oars.

Synonyms

Notonectidae (family name)
Water Boatmen (erroneous, sometimes confused)

Related Terms

Corixidae
Water Boatmen
Hemiptera
Aquatic Insects
Predatory Insects
Pleidae

Usage Notes

Often confused with water boatmen ( ), which swim right-side up and have scoop-shaped front legs for gathering detritus. The pygmy backswimmers (family ) are a separate, smaller family with similar habits. Backswimmers can deliver a painful bite if handled and are sometimes found in swimming pools.