COMMON BACKSWIMMER
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COMMON BACKSWIMMER

Notonecta undulata
Backswimmer Family (Notonectidae)

Identification

  • Small bug that swims upside down.
  • COMMON BACKSWIMMER
  • COMMON BACKSWIMMER
  • COMMON BACKSWIMMER
  • COMMON BACKSWIMMER
  • COMMON BACKSWIMMER
Click on each photo thumbnail to enlarge.

This aquatic bug was identified with the help of volunteer experts at Bug Guide. The second image shows the top of this bug. The first image, the bottom view, is normally how it is seen as it “rows” through the water with its strong and elongated hind legs. This bug is about 1/2 inch (13 mm) long. The image of the immature common backswimmer was taken in the small pond at Camp Brewster. This immature individual was indentified to be of the same species because it was found near the adults.

 

This species is common in ponds and small streams in this area.  It feeds on smaller aquatic insects and overwinters for one or two generations in its adult stage. Common Backswimmers are attracted to porch lights and other bright lights.

 

This bug has been reported to bite a person’s arm or leg in water; for that reason it has also been named “water wasp” by some.

 

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