About Backswimmer
An aquatic bug that swims upside down just beneath the water surface, using its long hind legs as oars. Its back is keeled like a boat hull and pale-colored for camouflage when viewed from below.
Did You Know?
Backswimmers swim inverted with their pale backs facing downward, providing counter-shading camouflage against the bright sky when predators look up from below.
How to Identify Backswimmer
Backswimmer (Notonecta glauca) belongs to the order Hemiptera, family Notonectidae. Adults typically measure 14-16 mm.
Backswimmer Habitat
Backswimmer is found in ponds & lakes habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Backswimmer Diet and Feeding
Backswimmer is a predatory species that actively hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates. As a predator, it helps control populations of pest species and maintains ecological balance.
Where Is Backswimmer Found?
Backswimmer can be found in Europe, Asia, where it inhabits ponds & lakes environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Backswimmer can be found
Is Backswimmer Dangerous?
Backswimmer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Backswimmer Role in Nature
Backswimmer serves as a natural predator, helping to control populations of other insects. Predatory insects are valuable in both natural ecosystems and agriculture, where they reduce the numbers of pest species without the need for chemical pesticides.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Backswimmer
What does Backswimmer look like?
The Backswimmer typically measures 14-16 mm.
Where is Backswimmer found?
The Backswimmer is found in Europe, Asia and typically inhabits ponds & lakes environments.
What does Backswimmer eat?
The Backswimmer is a predator that hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates.
Is Backswimmer dangerous to humans?
The Backswimmer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Backswimmer?
Backswimmers swim inverted with their pale backs facing downward, providing counter-shading camouflage against the bright sky when predators look up from below.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Backswimmer (Notonecta glauca). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/backswimmer
MLA:
"Backswimmer." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/backswimmer.