General Description

Body wide with large eyes on the side of the head. The rear legs are longer than the middle and front legs. Body up to 2 cm long.

Biology

Backswimmers are carnivores that eat a variety of small creatures, including tadpoles and young fish. They swim vigorously on their back by moving their long hind legs.

Distribution

Worldwide. Mainland Australia and Tasmania.

Habitat

Ponds, small lakes and lowland rivers.

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