Water Boatman (U.S. Naming)

Description:

Water Boatmen (family: Corixidae) "generally have a long flattened body up to 13 millimetres (0.5 in) long and have extremely fine dark brown or black striations marking the wings. They have four long rear legs and two short front ones. The hind legs are covered with hairs and shaped like oars, hence the name "water boatman". Their front legs are scoop shaped at the tip. They also have a triangular head with short, triangular mouthparts." The common name "water boatmen" may be confusing, as it refers to a different insect in the U.K., and one member of the Corixidae family, the "Corixa punctata" is called the "lesser water boatman".

Habitat:

Corixidae live at the bottom of ponds and streams where they mostly feed on plants and algae. Corixidae have a close relative, commonly known as "backswimmers". These insects swim on their backs at the top of the water and so may be distinguished from Corixidae. This spotting was done at the South Coast Botanic Gardens, in a lake located on the property.

Notes:

I believe I have the genus right for this Water Boatman (family: Corixidae), but if not, please do let me know!