Common Water Strider

Aquarius remigis, known as the common water strider or North American common water strider, is a species of aquatic bug. It was formerly known as Gerris remigis, but the subgenus Aquarius was elevated to generic rank in 1990 on the basis of phylogenetic analysis. Aquarius remigis is found throughout North America, but is most prevalent in the mid-west of the United States. Scientific Name: Aquarius remigis Range: Across North America Size: Body 12–16 mm Status: Common ID Notes: Dark, slender body. Long middle and hind legs spread out. Glides on water surface. Behavior / Notes: Hydrophobic leg hairs trap air, allowing it to walk on water. Captures insects that fall on the surface.