Corixidae

Definition

A family of aquatic true bugs (Hemiptera) commonly known as water boatmen or lesser water boatmen, characterized by oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming, a dorsoventrally flattened body, and the habit of swimming right-side-up. Members inhabit virtually all freshwater habitats worldwide, with approximately 500 described species in 55 genera.

Etymology

From Greek korax (raven, crow) + -idae (family suffix), referring to the dark coloration of some species.

Example

Corixidae such as Sigara species are important predators and scavengers in pond ecosystems, often forming a significant component of aquatic food webs and serving as prey for fish and waterfowl.

Synonyms

• water boatmen (common name)
• lesser water boatmen (common name, distinguishing from Notonectidae)

Related Terms

• Hemiptera
• Notonectidae
• Nepomorpha
• aquatic insects
• freshwater ecology
• Sigara

Usage Notes

Corixidae are distinguished from the superficially similar Notonectidae (backswimmers) by their right-side-up swimming posture and generally smaller size; both families are sometimes called 'water boatmen' in vernacular usage, leading to potential confusion. The family is placed in the infraorder Nepomorpha within Hemiptera.