The Backswimmer

Backswimmer

I netted this creature from the vernal pool the other day.  It was the largest creature that I netted that day.  The other insect, not shown, which appears similar to it is the Water Boatman.  The Backswimmer, as its name indicates, swims on its back.  The Water Boatman swims with its appendages down.

Backswimmer

Notice how the rear legs have hairs to aid in propulsion.

Backswimmer

According to Wikipedia,  These creatures can fly when the need arises, such as changing pools.

Backswimmer

At first, when I put the creature into my aquarium, I wished the air bubbles where gone.  I assumed they were just part of the transfer I had made.  I had no idea of their importance to the Insect.  Again, according to Wikipedia, "The size of these air bubbles, which provide buoyancy, changes as the nitrogen dissolves into the blood and the oxygen is used in respiration. This allows for regulation of the size of the air bubbles and their concentration of oxygen."

These insects are predators attacking prey as large as tadpoles and small fish.

Buy your 2013 Calender Here 



http://www.larrysimages.com/



Follow Larry's Images on Facebook 

.
Feed 


If you wish to unsubscribe, email to larry@larrysimages.com with "unsubscribe" in the subject line.