About Neotropical Backswimmer
A small aquatic bug that swims upside-down using its long oar-like hind legs. Its pale ventral surface provides camouflage when viewed from below against the sky.
Did You Know?
It carries a silvery air bubble on its belly that functions like a physical gill, extracting dissolved oxygen from the water.
How to Identify Neotropical Backswimmer
Neotropical Backswimmer (Buenoa antigone) belongs to the order Hemiptera, family Notonectidae. Adults typically measure 5-9 mm.
Neotropical Backswimmer Habitat
Neotropical Backswimmer is found in ponds & lakes habitats, particularly across Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Neotropical Backswimmer Diet and Feeding
Neotropical Backswimmer has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter. This dietary flexibility allows it to exploit a wide range of food sources in its environment.
Where Is Neotropical Backswimmer Found?
Neotropical Backswimmer can be found in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, where it inhabits ponds & lakes environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Neotropical Backswimmer can be found
Is Neotropical Backswimmer Dangerous?
Neotropical 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.
Neotropical Backswimmer Role in Nature
Neotropical Backswimmer plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Neotropical Backswimmer are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Neotropical Backswimmer
What does Neotropical Backswimmer look like?
The Neotropical Backswimmer typically measures 5-9 mm.
Where is Neotropical Backswimmer found?
The Neotropical Backswimmer is found in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and typically inhabits ponds & lakes environments.
What does Neotropical Backswimmer eat?
The Neotropical Backswimmer has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter.
Is Neotropical Backswimmer dangerous to humans?
The Neotropical Backswimmer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Neotropical Backswimmer?
It carries a silvery air bubble on its belly that functions like a physical gill, extracting dissolved oxygen from the water.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Neotropical Backswimmer (Buenoa antigone). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/neotropical-backswimmer
MLA:
"Neotropical Backswimmer." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/neotropical-backswimmer.