Shore Bugs

Saldidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Heteroptera
Infraorder: Leptopodomorpha
Family: Saldidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Saldidae: /ˈsældaɪdiː/

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Images

Summary

Saldidae, also known as shore bugs, are a family of insects in the order Hemiptera. They are oval-shaped, measuring 2–8 mm, often found near freshwater bodies and are capable of fleeing by leaping or flying. Approximately 350 species worldwide, mainly in the Nearctic and Palearctic regions.

Physical Characteristics

3–7 mm body oval, flattened, brown and white or black and white; forewing membrane with four or five long closed cells

Identification Tips

Oval-shaped insects, measuring 2–8 mm, often found near shorelines or marginal growths near water bodies.

Habitat

Near water on sandy shores, edges of ponds, bogs, marshes, mud flats; on rocks in streams; around springs; may also occur away from water, even in dry areas.

Distribution

North America, Eurasia, Africa, Australia

Diet

Predaceous on other insects; some scavengers.

Life Cycle

Pass the winter through egg or adult diapause.

Ecosystem Role

Predators and scavengers in their habitat.