Family Notonectidae - Backswimmers

2 subfamilies, with 32 spp. in 3 genera in NAand 400 spp. in 11 genera worldwide

Keys to genera/species provided in

Accurate identification of species often requires examining stridulatory structures and male genitalia.

eyes relatively close together--typically separated by less than the width of one eye

front legs not scoop-like (unlike in Corixidae)

hind legs modified for swimming, with long hairs

Aquatic bugs that often swim upside-down. When resting at the surface, body is typically tilted with the head downward. Characteristics

Prey on other aquatic insects and sometimes on small vertebrates; nymphs often cannibalistic

Elongated white eggs are cemented to underwater plant stems and hatch in a few weeks; first-generation adults appear in July; often 2 generations a year

Remarks

May bite if handled carelessly



Dive by holding air trapped in abdominal pockets; can remain submerged for up to 6 hrs



Come to lights; may invade swimming pools and become a nuisance

