Aquarius paludum
This record describes Aquarius paludum (species). Recorded family: Gerridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Aquarius paludum (14 to 16 mm) and A. najas (13 to 17 mm) can be distinguished from all other skaters found in England by their larger size. A. paludum is characterised by long abdominal spines that are angled upward and reach the tip of the abdomen, and by a yellow line along the side of the pronotum. A. najas has shorter spines and no yellow line. Good close up images required showing identification features. Detailed examination may be required. Aquarius paludum inhabits the surfaces of a wide variety of freshwater habitats both temporary and permanent. Most likely to be observed in summer and autumn. Widespread in the southern half of Britain, it seems to be rather infrequent and most often recorded in the south east of England.
Wikipedia reference for Aquarius paludum: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquarius_paludum.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Aquarius paludum
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be observed in summer and autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain, it seems to be rather infrequent and most often recorded in the south east of England.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Aquarius paludum. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquarius paludum
What is Aquarius paludum?
Aquarius paludum is a species in the family Gerridae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Aquarius paludum found?
Habitat: Aquarius paludum
When is Aquarius paludum active?
Aquarius paludum: seasonal activity - Most likely to be observed in summer and autumn..