Aquatic Bugs

Nepomorpha

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Heteroptera
Infraorder: Nepomorpha

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Nepomorpha: //nɛpəˈmɔrfə//

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

Images

Pelocoris carolinensis 4 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pelocoris femoratus male 3 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pelocoris balius female 3 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pelocoris carolinensis 5 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Field book of ponds and streams (Page 238) BHL4949958 by Morgan, Ann Haven. Used under a No restrictions license.

Pelocoris balius male 3 by Fredlyfish4. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Nepomorpha is an infraorder of aquatic insects known as true water bugs, characterized by their aquatic habits, unique adaptations for swimming and predation, and their evolutionary history that dates back to the Early Triassic period.

Physical Characteristics

Antennae are very short and concealed under the eyes; forelegs are raptorial in most families, while other legs are modified for swimming (except in the riparian Ochteroidea).

Identification Tips

Nepomorpha can be distinguished from related Heteroptera by their missing or vestigial ocelli; their antennae are reduced and usually tucked against the head.

Habitat

Primarily freshwater habitats, with exceptions for the riparian Ochteroidea found along the water's edge.

Distribution

Occurs all over the world outside the polar regions, with approximately 2,000 species worldwide, including about 230 species in 36 genera within certain regions.

Diet

Predators of invertebrates, with exceptions like some Corixidae that feed on algae; some species are omnivores or feed on plants.

Ecosystem Role

Many species are predators and play important roles in controlling invertebrate populations; some species may feed on small fish and amphibians.

Health Concerns

Some species, like Notonecta glauca, can deliver a sting that is often more painful than a bee's sting.

Evolution

The Nepomorpha probably originated around the start of the Early Triassic, with significant evolution completing by the end of the Triassic, about 201 million years ago.