Gerris alacris
Hussey, 1921
Gerris alacris is a water strider in the Gerridae, first described by Hussey in 1921. It inhabits aquatic environments in North America and is known to serve as a for larval water mites. Laboratory studies indicate that G. alacris are susceptible to by Limnochares aquatica, with significant impacts on survival and development.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Gerris alacris: /ˈɡɛrɪs əˈleɪkrɪs/
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Habitat
Aquatic environments; lentic systems implied by and .
Distribution
North America.
Host Associations
- Limnochares aquatica - Larval water mites parasitize G. alacris; lasts 6–13 days with most mites dropping off by 's second instar, all by fourth instar. increases mortality and extends instar duration, with effects most severe during first instar.
Similar Taxa
- Gerris comatusLaboratory studies show similar response to by Limnochares aquatica; no significant difference in mortality or developmental effects between the two under comparable loads.
- Gerris buenoiShows greater mortality than G. alacris when carrying comparable numbers of larval mites, indicating differential susceptibility to .