Common Water Strider vs Indian Antlion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Water Strider Indian Antlion
Scientific Name Aquarius remigis Myrmecaelurus trigrammus
Order Hemiptera Neuroptera
Family Gerridae Myrmeleontidae
Size 11-16 mm 40-55 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Throughout North America India, Middle East, Central Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Water Strider

A slender dark brown insect that skates across the surface of streams and ponds using water surface tension. Its long middle and hind legs distribute its weight over the water film.

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Did You Know?

Tiny hydrophobic hairs on its legs trap air and repel water, allowing it to stand on the surface without breaking through.

Indian Antlion

A medium-sized antlion widespread across southern Asia and the Middle East. Often encountered in sandy soils near human settlements.

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Did You Know?

It ranges from the Mediterranean to India, making it one of the most widespread Old World antlions.