Ochteroidea

Ochteroidea can be distinguished from other superfamilies in Nepomorpha by the combination of: small, compact body; short, stout legs adapted for jumping rather than swimming; and a velvety or granular body surface. Unlike Corixoidea (water boatmen) and Notonectoidea (backswimmers), they lack long, oar-like swimming legs. The forewings are usually macropterous or brachypterous with a leathery texture.

Riparian zones, margins of ponds, streams, and other freshwater bodies. Often found on mud, wet sand, or among emergent vegetation at water's edge. Some species inhabit moist terrestrial environments near water.

Worldwide distribution in tropical and temperate regions. Ochteridae are more diverse in the Old World tropics, while Gelastocoridae have broader global representation.

Members are active predators that hunt at the water's edge rather than in open water. Gelastocoridae (toad bugs) are known for their jumping ability and toad-like appearance. They often remain motionless, camouflaged against substrate, before ambushing prey.

Predators in shoreline and riparian food webs, contributing to regulation of small invertebrate populations in freshwater margin ecosystems.

• CorixoideaWater boatmen have long, fringed hind legs adapted for swimming; Ochteroidea have short, unmodified legs for jumping and walking on substrate.
• NotonectoideaBackswimmers swim upside down with long, oar-like legs; Ochteroidea do not swim and have compact, jumping-adapted legs.
• NaucoroideaCreeping water bugs are fully aquatic with flattened bodies and swim with modified legs; Ochteroidea are semi-aquatic with different leg structure and body form.

• BugGuide
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life