Aquarius

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Aquarius: //əˈkwɛ.ɹi.əs//

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Summary

Aquarius is a genus of water striders found primarily on the surfaces of still and slow-moving waters. They have specialized adaptations, such as elongated limbs, that allow them to exploit their aquatic environment effectively. Although once treated as a subgenus of Gerris, current classifications recognize them as distinct within the Gerrinidae family.

Physical Characteristics

Hind tibia at least 4 times as long as metatarsomere 1; connexival spines prominent; pronotum dull; antennomere 1 is more than 0.9 as long as antennomeres 2+3; adults can be winged or wingless.

Identification Tips

Look for the prominent connexival spines and the elongate body shape typical of this genus.

Habitat

Surface of ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and rivers.

Distribution

Worldwide, but mostly holarctic; throughout North America.

Diet

Aquatic arthropods, feeding primarily on small insects and other invertebrates found on the water surface.

Life Cycle

Life cycle information specific to Aquarius not provided; generally involves egg, nymph, and adult stages common to Hemiptera.

Reproduction

Reproduction details are not specifically described in the provided information.

Ecosystem Role

Aquarius species play a role in aquatic ecosystems as predators of other small aquatic organisms, as well as prey to larger predators.

Collecting Methods

• Netting from the surface of water bodies
• Dipping methods to capture specimens

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Drying and mounting on pins for display

Evolution

The taxonomy of the Aquarius remigis group needs further study and may be moved to a separate genus within or sister to the Gerris clade.

Similar Taxa

• Gerris
• Limnoporus
• Hydrometra

Tags

• Aquatic Insects
• Hemiptera
• Water Strider
• Gerridae