Creeping Water Bugs

Naucoridae

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Naucoridae: //naʊˈkɔːrɪdiː//

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Summary

Naucoridae, commonly known as creeping water bugs, is a small family of insects found in a variety of freshwater habitats worldwide, especially in tropical regions. They are small, predatory insects that are notable for their flattened body and association with submerged vegetation.

Physical Characteristics

5‒20 mm long (0.2‒0.8 in), typical species range 6‒15 mm (0.24–0.59 in); similar in appearance to giant water bugs (Belostomatidae) but considerably smaller.

Identification Tips

Look for small, flattened body with a broad head and prominent eyes. They are often found in association with submerged vegetation.

Habitat

Freshwater habitats including ponds, lakes, marshes, swamps, rivers, and streams.

Distribution

Most of the world; greatest diversity in tropical regions, with more diversity in w. & sw. US.

Diet

Macroinvertebrates.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role in aquatic food webs as both predators and prey.

Evolution

Formerly united in a superfamily Naucoroidea, which included Aphelocheiridae and Potamocoridae; now monotypic.

Similar Taxa

Belostomatidae (giant water bugs)