General Description
Small water striders that are slightly flattened. The males are much smaller than the female and often ride on the female's back. Adults may or may not have wings. The stomach (abdomen) is about the same length as the chest. Body length around 2-4 mm.
Biology
Water striders can skate, glide or jump across the water surface. They often gather together in groups or 'schools'. This social behaviour may help individuals capture prey, such as emerging aquatic insects or terrestrial insects that have become trapped in the water by the surface tension. Schooling may also increase the chances of finding a mate and avoiding predators. They propel themselves over the water surface using modified leg strokes of their middle and hind legs.
Distribution
South-eastern Australia.
Habitat
Pools in rivers. Only found on the surface of the water.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
Small insects that run on the water surface. Short bodies with a long chest and long middle and hind legs.
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Colours
Black
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Maximum Size
4 mm
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Habitats
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Diet
Insects
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Endemicity
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Commercial
No
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Taxon Name
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Scientific Author
Kirkaldy, 1902
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Common Name
Water Strider
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Kingdom
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Phylum
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Subphylum
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Class
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Order
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Suborder
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Infraorder
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Superfamily
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Family
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Subfamily
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Genus
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Species Name
philarete