Nepoidea
Nepoidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Nepomorpha
- Superfamily: Nepoidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nepoidea: //nɛˈpɔɪdiːə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Nepomorpha is an infraorder of aquatic insects known as true water bugs, characterized by their rostrum for feeding and aquatic lifestyle, with a global distribution excluding polar regions. They exhibit a diverse diet, predominantly predatory, and have evolved over millions of years with a rich fossil history.
Physical Characteristics
The Nepomorpha have reduced or vestigial ocelli, weakly muscled and tucked antennae. They possess a rostrum for piercing food sources. Some species can sting to defend themselves.
Identification Tips
Look for the absence of ocelli and the presence of a rostrum. Their aquatic habits and body shape can help distinguish different families within this infraorder.
Habitat
Primarily freshwater habitats; some species found along water's edge.
Distribution
Worldwide except polar regions; around 2,000 species total.
Diet
Predominantly predatory, feeding on invertebrates, small fish, and amphibians; some are omnivorous or herbivorous with chewing capabilities.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, nymph, and adult stages, typical of hemipterans.
Reproduction
Reproduction details vary by species; many species exhibit egg-laying behavior in aquatic environments.
Predators
Predators can include fish and amphibians that feed on juvenile and adult water bugs.
Ecosystem Role
They play significant roles in aquatic food webs as predators and prey.
Economic Impact
Some species may have economic impacts as they can affect fish populations.
Health Concerns
Some species can deliver painful stings which may cause discomfort to humans.
Collecting Methods
- Netting from freshwater bodies
- Sampling with bait traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying with desiccants
- Freezing post collection
Evolution
Nepomorpha likely originated around the start of the Early Triassic, with significant fossil evidence suggesting their evolution is well-documented.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often misidentified as harmless due to their aquatic nature, despite some species being capable of painful stings.
Tags
- Nepomorpha
- aquatic insects
- true water bugs
- Hemiptera