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A backswimmer

A backswimmer

Notonecta irrorata

A species of Notonecta

Elegantly adorned with a speckled mosaic of hues, a backswimmer is known for its proficient swimming, its body keel-shaped and oriented inversely in freshwater habitats. This remarkable species has adapted to use its hind legs as oars, propelling itself with rapid, synchronized strokes. As a predator, its diet consists primarily of other small aquatic organisms, which it hunts using piercing mouthparts to inject lethal saliva and then extract bodily fluids.

General Info About A backswimmer
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Attributes of A backswimmer
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
pond; lake; river
Adult Food Sources
Aquatic insects, small fish, tadpoles, aquatic larvae, snails
Larva Food Source
Small aquatic invertebrates, mosquito larvae, water fleas (daphnia spp.), tadpole shrimps, various insect larvae
Biting/stinging
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 A backswimmer
Common
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Distribution Area of A backswimmer
North America
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Life Cycle of A backswimmer
Egg The eggs of a backswimmer are often laid on submerged vegetation. They are tiny and initially pale, darkening as development progresses. Over time, embryonic features differentiate within the eggs.
Nymph A backswimmer nymphs hatch from the eggs and resemble miniature adults but lack fully developed wings. These aquatic nymphs undergo several instars, growing larger and developing wing pads with each molt.
Adult Emerging as an adult, a backswimmer has fully developed wings and reproductive organs. The coloration may vary from the nymph stage, aiding in camouflage or mate attraction. The adult is now a proficient swimmer and flyer.
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Predators of A backswimmer Larvae
Aquatic insects, fish, tadpoles, birds
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Predators of Adult A backswimmer
Fish, birds, turtles, larger aquatic insects
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Scientific Classification of A backswimmer
Tips for Finding A backswimmer
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Youth Habitat of A backswimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of A backswimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Habitat Preferences of A backswimmer Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of a backswimmer are typically deposited on submerged vegetation in fresh bodies of water, such as ponds and quiet streams. Nymphs inhabit the same aquatic environment, often seen swimming upside down, navigating through water plants near the surface. For adults, search along the edges of these water bodies, as they occasionally come to the surface to fly to new habitats or mate. They favor still or slow-moving water, where vegetation is abundant, providing them both cover from predators and a rich source of prey.
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When is the Best Time to Observe A backswimmer
Search for a backswimmer during daylight hours as they are more active and visible.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe A backswimmer
Choose a day with calm weather to find a backswimmer, as they are aquatic insects and may be easier to spot in still water environments.
Are A backswimmer harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of A backswimmer
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Nymphs
Purpose
Feed Itself
A backswimmer is an aquatic predator known for its unique back-swimming behavior. It captures prey by grabbing it with its front legs and then delivering a fatal bite. The prey consists mainly of mosquito larvae and small aquatic organisms. Not widely known, a backswimmer's hunting technique involves injecting a powerful enzyme that subdues the prey quickly.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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