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Backswimmer (Side View)

Photo of backswimmer, side view

Backswimmers rest at the water surface tilted head-downward, with the abdomen tip protruding from the water. The oarlike hind legs are usually extended downward at angles to the body.

By: Jim Rathert

Other Content You May Like

  • Backswimmers

    Sometimes called “water bees” or “water wasps,” backswimmers are predaceous and can deliver a painful bite if mishandled. True to their other common name, they swim belly-up, and their backs are keeled like a boat, which makes back-swimming easier.

  • Water Boatmen

    Water boatmen are one of the few aquatic “true bugs” that are not predaceous and do not bite people. Instead, they suck juices from algae and detritus. Only a few species eat other small aquatic creatures. Learn more about these nifty water bugs.

  • Water Striders

    Also called “pond skaters” and “water spiders,” water striders are hard not to notice. Water-repellant hairs on the hind and middle legs allow these nimble insects to skate on the surface of the water.

  • Whirligig Beetles

    Groups of these aquatic beetles swim on the surface of water in quick, random patterns, searching for food. They have two pairs of eyes—one pair above the water, and one pair below—which helps them to quickly and accurately capture their prey.

  • Giant Water Bugs

    These huge aquatic bugs, which frequently fly around electric lights at night, are infamous for the painful bite they can deliver, but fish, birds—and some people—find them tasty!

  • Eastern Dobsonfly (Hellgrammite)

    The adults are huge, mothlike, with large wings and a weak, fluttery flight. The fiercely predaceous aquatic larvae, called hellgrammites, are well-known to anglers, who often use them as bait.

  • Mayflies

    The mayflies are a fascinating group of insects. The nymphs live from months to years under water, breathing through gills, and the adults fly around in the air, mating, living for only a day or two.

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MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources.
We also facilitate your participation in resource-management activities, and we provide opportunities for you to use, enjoy and learn about nature.

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