Dock Bug vs Water Strider
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dock Bug | Water Strider |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Coreus marginatus | Gerris lacustris |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Coreidae | Gerridae |
| Size | 12-15 mm | 8-10 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe, Western Asia | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Dock Bug
A common European squash bug relative that feeds on dock and sorrel plants. It has a distinctively wide, flattened abdomen with expanded margins.
Did You Know?
When handled, it releases a scent that many people describe as smelling distinctly like green apples.
Water Strider
Walks on water using hydrophobic leg hairs that trap air. Each leg has thousands of microscopic grooved hairs. Can detect prey vibrations on the water surface from centimeters away.
Did You Know?
Water striders have over 1,000 microscopic hairs per mm on their legs — each hair has nano-grooves that trap air, making their feet essentially unwettable.