Identification
This small water strider – body about 1/4 inch long (6 mm) – was identified with the help of volunteer experts at BugGuide. Very little is known about this species, except that it is one of 9 species of the genus Trepobates found on our continent. It seems to come in different color phases as shown in in the first and last images. Apparently they come without wings as shown here, and also with wings (not yet found).
These individuals were photographed in mid-September (2013) from the float on the floodplain pond. This must be the time when the adults are mating (images 2 and 3). There were more than 20 individuals seen just off the float, but their abundance in our nature centers is not yet known.
This water strider is predatory on small living and dead insects on the surface of water. The underside of their legs (tarsi) are covered with fine water repellent hairs that allow them to walk on water.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.