Gerris thoracicus
This record describes Gerris thoracicus (species). Recorded family: Gerridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
10-12mm. Similar to the Common Pondskater, Gerris lacustris , but usually with an orange disc in the centre of the thorax. Two other Gerris species have this but Gerris thoracicus is the commonest of these. It is usually fully winged and able to fly. The antennal segments are all dirty yellow and the yellow stripe of the side of the thorax widens towards the rear. The other two species with an orange thoracic disc are G. costai (which is larger) and G. lateralis which has patches of silver hairs along each side of the ventral surface of the abdomen. Similar to other members of this family and detailed examination is needed to identify it to species level. Found in ponds and lakes, often those with organically enriched or slightly polluted waters. Eggs are laid in April and May, which give rise to a first generation of adults by mid-summer. These produce a second generation, the adults of which overwinter. Eggs are laid on the floating leaves of aquatic plants. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in ponds and lakes, often those with organically enriched or slightly polluted waters.
Seasonal Activity
Eggs are laid in April and May, which give rise to a first generation of adults by mid-summer. These produce a second generation, the adults of which overwinter.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Eggs are laid on the floating leaves of aquatic plants.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Gerris thoracicus. 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.
Photos of Gerris thoracicus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Gerris thoracicus
What is Gerris thoracicus?
Gerris thoracicus is a species in the family Gerridae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Gerris thoracicus found?
Habitat: Found in ponds and lakes, often those with organically enriched or slightly polluted waters.
When is Gerris thoracicus active?
Gerris thoracicus: seasonal activity - Eggs are laid in April and May, which give rise to a first generation of adults by mid-summer. These produce a second generation, the adults of which overwinter..
What is the life cycle of a Gerris thoracicus?
Eggs are laid on the floating leaves of aquatic plants.