Microvelia americana
(Uhler, 1884)
Broad-Shouldered Water Strider
Microvelia americana is a small water strider in the Veliidae, commonly known as the Broad-Shouldered Water Strider. It inhabits aquatic environments across North America. As a member of the Gerromorpha, it is adapted to life on the water surface, using surface tension to move and forage.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Microvelia americana: /ˌmaɪkroʊˈvɛliə əˌmɛrɪˈkeɪnə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The "Broad-Shouldered Water Strider" suggests relatively wide pronotal or thoracic proportions compared to . Microvelia are generally smaller than the related Gerridae (common water striders) and often show reduced wing development. Definitive identification to species requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological features not reliably distinguished in the field.
Images
Habitat
Aquatic environments including ponds, streams, and other freshwater bodies where surface film is available. Specific microhabitat preferences within these systems are not well documented.
Distribution
North America. Distribution records include the United States, with specific observations from Vermont.
Behavior
As with other Veliidae, individuals skate on the water surface film using middle and hind legs, with the slender front legs used for prey capture. at favorable locations may occur.
Ecological Role
Likely functions as a surface-dwelling in freshwater , though specific ecological impacts have not been quantified.
Similar Taxa
- Microvelia other speciesCongeneric share similar small size and preferences; identification requires detailed morphological examination.
- Aquarius remigis and other GerridaeCommon water striders are larger, with proportionally longer legs and more elongated bodies; they occupy similar surface but are readily distinguished by size.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The was described by Philip R. Uhler in 1884. The Microvelia is diverse and widespread, with species identification often requiring examination.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
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