River Skater
Aquarius najas
Adults patrol the surface of clear, slow-flowing rivers and streams, moving rapidly over the water film. They ambush fallen or struggling insects and pierce prey with their sucking mouthparts. Long middle and hind legs provide propulsion and keep the body balanced above the surface. Their hydrophobic leg hairs exploit surface tension, allowing them to move across water that would drown most insects.
- Type
- Water
- Conservation status
- NE
Growth chain
- ?
- River Skater