Velvety Shore Bugs

Ochteridae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Heteroptera
Infraorder: Nepomorpha
Superfamily: Ochteroidea
Family: Ochteridae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ochteridae: /ɒkˈθɛrɪˌdeɪ/

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

Summary

Ochteridae, known as velvety shore bugs, is a small family of true bugs distinguished by their predatory behavior on small invertebrates and their habitat along freshwater edges. Little is known about their detailed biology due to their inconspicuous nature and difficulty in study.

Physical Characteristics

Length ranging from 4 to 9 mm; forelegs nonraptorial; capable of jumping and flying.

Identification Tips

Resemble Saldidae shore bugs; usually small and non-conspicuous, making identification challenging.

Habitat

Damp areas along ponds, lakes, and streams, primarily in the edges of still waters.

Distribution

Worldwide; particularly diverse in tropical regions, found in Ontario and much of the US.

Diet

Predatory on small invertebrates, including larvae of flies.

Life Cycle

Little is known about their life cycle, but they undergo multiple immature instars.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of small invertebrates in aquatic ecosystems.

Evolution

Part of the true bug order Hemiptera, suborder Heteroptera, and are closely related to other shore bugs.

Similar Taxa

Saldidae