Water strider

The surface of calm freshwater, such as ponds, slow-moving streams, and marshes.

Carnivorous scavengers that feed on small insects (like mosquitoes or flies) that fall onto the water surface, using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

They use surface tension to 'skate' across the water surface. They are highly sensitive to vibrations to locate prey and communicate through ripples.

Generally harmless to humans. They provide ecological benefits by controlling mosquito populations and serve as an important food source for fish and birds.