Gerris
ExploreInsects
Gerris
Gerris
Gerris, also known as water striders, are special insects that can walk on water! They have long legs that help them glide across the surface, making them look like they are dancing on the water.
Habitat: Wetlands
Appearance
The Gerris is a slender, dark-bodied insect often seen on water. It has six long, thin legs, with the front two shorter for grasping prey. Its distinctive silver underside helps it blend in from below.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHemipteraFamilyGerridaeGenusGerris
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Some species of Gerris can grow wings and fly away to find new water sources!
Their middle legs are like oars, pushing them across the water incredibly fast!
They can even mate while balancing on the water's surface, what acrobats!
Water striders use their short front legs to grab and hold onto their insect meals!
Special abilities
Ability
Water Walker
Gerris can walk on water's surface because of their light weight and special hydrophobic leg hairs that repel water.
Ability
Ripple Reader
Gerris has super sensitive leg hairs that detect tiny vibrations on the water, helping them find food or avoid danger.
Ability
Hydrophobic Houdini
Gerris has microscopic hairs on their legs that trap air bubbles, helping them stay dry and float effortlessly.
Measurements & details
- Size
- 10-15 mm
- Lifespan
- 30-90 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Water striders are tiny hunters, snatching other insects that fall onto the water's surface.
Primary Foods
- Small insects
- Mosquitoes
- Flies
- Larvae
Foraging Method
- Ambush
Ecological connections
eaten by
Mallard
Anas platyrhynchos
A common duck that preys on aquatic insects.
hunts
Common mosquito
Culex pipiens
Gerris preys on mosquito larvae and adults on the water.
eaten by
European perch
Perca fluviatilis
A freshwater fish that hunts surface-dwelling insects.
Traits
Webbed Feet
Characterized by having toes connected by a membrane, typically aiding in swimming.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Insectivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet primarily consists of insects and other small invertebrates.
Wetland
This habitat trait identifies species found in wetlands, which are areas of land saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, including marshes, swamps, and bogs.
Carnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of animal tissue.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Miniature
Pertaining to species that are significantly smaller than typical or average for their kind.
Speedster
This trait identifies organisms that exhibit exceptional swiftness in movement for hunting, escape, or travel.
Also known as
Skater
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Gerris are harmless, but it's best to watch them from a distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Gerris?
10-15 mm
How long does Gerris live?
30-90 days
What does Gerris eat?
Water striders are tiny hunters, snatching other insects that fall onto the water's surface.
Where is Gerris usually found?
Wetlands
How does Gerris hunt?
Ambush
How many legs does Gerris have?
6
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