
Among widespread genera, the North Hemisphere Aquarius includes the largest species, generally exceeding 12 mm (0.47 in), at least among females, and the largest species averaging about 24 mm (0.94 in). They are generally small, long-legged insects and the body length of most species is between 2 and 12 mm (0.08–0.47 in). These hairs repel the water, preventing drops from weighing down the body. The entire body is covered by these hairpiles, providing the water strider resistance to splashes or drops of water. These are tiny hairs with more than one thousand microhairs per mm.

Hydrofuge hairpiles are small, hydrophobic microhairs. The family Gerridae is physically characterized by having hydrofuge hairpiles, retractable preapical claws, and elongated legs and body. Since then, the Gerridae have been continuously studied due to their ability to walk on water and unique social characteristics. Around this time, Eschscholtz discovered three species of the Gerridae, bringing attention to the species, though little of their biology was known. The genus Halobates was first heavily studied between 18 when Buchanan-White collected several different species during the Challenger Expedition. While 90% of the Gerridae are freshwater bugs, the oceanic Halobates makes the family quite exceptional among insects. Over 1,700 species of gerrids have been described, 10% of them being marine. As a result, one could likely find water striders present in any pond, river, or lake.

They are anatomically built to transfer their weight to be able to run on top of the water's surface. Consistent with the classification of the Gerridae as true bugs (i.e., suborder Heteroptera), gerrids have mouthparts evolved for piercing and sucking, and distinguish themselves by having the unusual ability to walk on water, making them pleuston (surface-living) animals. Whether you need Cockroach extermination or Waterbug Removal, Contact us today to get help.The Gerridae are a family of insects in the order Hemiptera, commonly known as water striders, water skeeters, water scooters, water bugs, pond skaters, water skippers, water skimmers or puddle flies.
WATER BUGS HOW TO
Not anymore with Green Pest Solutions! We know just how to approach your pest problems to help you take back your home. Waterbugs: Treat them the same way you do cockroaches!.Cockroaches: Use a bait that lures cockroaches then kills them.They may choose to if you pick it up and don’t handle it properly. They have the ability to bite, but they really aren’t interested in you. Waterbugs: Waterbugs don’t pose a great risk to you or your family.The symptoms are similar to other allergy issues. Cockroaches: Some people are actually allergic to cockroaches.Waterbugs: Seeing one in the water is a good sign you’re dealing with a waterbug instead of a cockroach.Cockroaches: Finding one (or a group) in a moist area-but not in the water-s a good sign.If they end up in your home, it might not be on purpose.

They are especially common to find near bodies of water.
