Hydrometra

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Heteroptera
Infraorder: Gerromorpha
Family: Hydrometridae
Genus: Hydrometra

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hydrometra: //ˌhaɪdrəˈmiːtrə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Hydrometra australis 1 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Hydrometra australis 3 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Hydrometra australis JW Windsor Hills, Austin, TX, USA by Justin Williams. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Hydrometra australis 2 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Hydrometra martini KS WA US by Katja Schulz. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Hydrometra is a genus of water measurers in the family Hydrometridae, comprising over 120 described species worldwide, known for their ability to walk on water and found at the periphery of aquatic environments.

Physical Characteristics

7–12 mm in length.

Identification Tips

Look for elongated bodies that allow them to walk on water surfaces; they are often found on the edges of ponds or resting on aquatic vegetation.

Habitat

Edges of ponds, typically on aquatic vegetation or walking slowly over the water surface.

Distribution

8 species are found in the US, with 1 species reaching Canada; over 120 species described worldwide.

Diet

Small invertebrates.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid on vertical surfaces of plant stems or on ground several centimeters above water level.

Reproduction

Eggs are typically laid above water to avoid predation and to ensure the young can access water easily.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role in controlling small invertebrate populations and serve as prey for various larger predators.