Velvety-texture
Guides
Ochteridae
Velvety Shore Bugs
Ochteridae is a small family of true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) comprising approximately 80–90 described species in eight genera. Commonly known as velvety shore bugs, they are semi-aquatic insects inhabiting the margins of freshwater bodies worldwide, with highest diversity in tropical regions. The family is characterized by a velvety body texture, small size (4.5–9 mm), and distinctive antennal and leg sensilla adapted to riparian habitats. Recent taxonomic revisions have significantly expanded the known species diversity, particularly in Australia, Mesoamerica, and the Andes.