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Common backswimmer

Common backswimmer

Notonecta glauca

A species of Notonecta, Also known as Backswimmer

This aquatic insect is an adept swimmer, known for its unique backstroke swimming technique using oar-like hind legs. This stroke is a defining characteristic, along with their piercing-sucking mouthparts, common backswimmer seizes prey with a raptor-like ambush. Preferring still freshwater habitats, they play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, controlling populations of other small invertebrates and serving as prey for fish and amphibians.

General Info About Common backswimmer
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Attributes of Common backswimmer
Colors
Brown
Black
Orange
Habitat
Inland freshwater pond
Adult Food Sources
Insect larvae, small fish, aquatic crustaceans, tadpoles, small amphibians
Larva Food Source
Small aquatic invertebrates, fish larvae, mosquito larvae, aquatic insects, tadpoles
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Species Status of Common backswimmer
Widespread and common
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Distribution Area of Common backswimmer
Europe, North Africa, Asia, Siberia, China
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Life Cycle of Common backswimmer
Egg The eggs of common backswimmer are usually deposited one at a time or in batches, often on vegetation. The eggs are minute and may vary in color, gradually turning darker as development proceeds. They lack limbs or active organs.
Nymph Nymphs resemble miniature versions of adults but without fully developed wings. The common backswimmer nymph grows through several instars, increasing in size and developing wing pads. Color and shape change subtly with each molt, as the nymphs become more adept swimmers.
Adult Upon reaching adulthood, common backswimmer has fully developed wings and is capable of flight. The adult's size is larger than its nymphal stages, with a more defined and hardened exoskeleton. Coloration is typically darker and more vivid, reflecting adult functions such as predation and mating.
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Predators of Common backswimmer Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, dragonflies, water beetles
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Predators of Adult Common backswimmer
Birds, frogs, newts, larger species of water beetles
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Interesting Facts About Common backswimmer
Swimming upside down, common backswimmer uses its hind legs like oars to gracefully navigate freshwater environments, a unique adaptation among aquatic insects.
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Scientific Classification of Common backswimmer
Tips for Finding Common backswimmer
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Youth Habitat of Common backswimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Common backswimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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How Can You Attract Common backswimmer
Since common backswimmer are aquatic insects and predators by nature, the best trap food might include smaller aquatic organisms such as mosquito nymphs or daphnia. However, it is important to note that using live bait would require adherence to local wildlife regulations.
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Habitat Preferences of Common backswimmer Through Different Life Stages
In the egg stage, common backswimmer are typically laid on submerged vegetation in freshwater bodies. As nymphs, they inhabit the same aquatic environments, frequenting the underside of the water's surface, where they can often be seen hanging in an upside-down position. Adults, while still aquatic and retaining the ability to swim well, have the added ability to fly and thus can be found around or on various freshwater sources such as ponds and marshes. To search for these insects, one would inspect the vegetation and surface of still or slow-moving waters, with patience needed to spot the well-camouflaged nymphs and the alertness to catch the quick-moving adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common backswimmer
The suitable time to find common backswimmer is usually during the warmer months when aquatic insects are most active. Dawn and dusk could be particularly good times when common backswimmer are likely to be hunting for prey.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common backswimmer
Mild to warm weather with calm water conditions would be ideal since common backswimmer prefer still or slow-moving water bodies for swimming and hunting. Excessive rain, cold, or turbulent waters might not be suitable for finding common backswimmer.
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How and Where Can You Find Common backswimmer at Different Life Stages
Adult Common backswimmer adults are typically found floating or swimming in still or slow-moving water bodies such as ponds, lakes, or ditches. Look for them by carefully observing the water surface for insect activity, especially in areas with aquatic vegetation.
Nymph Common backswimmer Nymphs, also known as nymphs, can be found in the same aquatic environments as adults but are smaller and less conspicuous. They can be located by gently sweeping a fine-meshed aquatic net through the water near plants or detritus.
Egg Common backswimmer eggs are deposited on vegetation, often just below the surface of the water. Finding common backswimmer eggs requires a careful examination of aquatic plants, being mindful not to disturb the ecosystem too much.
Are Common backswimmer harmful?
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