Behind an apparently harmless shell, the water bug hides its true essence, being one of the most feared freshwater predators on the planet and an adept hunter. Under the tactic of hiding, waiting, and striking, the animal is one of the most aggressive beings in nature. They are voracious predators that feed on everything from ducks to venomous snakes – according to a new study that brings together decades of investigation into aquatic insects. The water bug can grow up to 10 centimeters and is part of the select group of giant insects.
They are “patient” predators, says Charles Swart, a university professor at Trinity College, in Connecticut, who studied giant aquatic insects. “They assume hunting positions among water plants, and anything that passes in front of them is captured and potentially eaten.”
The investigation, published in the journal Entomological Science, closely observes the ecology of giant aquatic insects, which are found in almost every part of the world and include about 150 known species. The largest, Lethocerus grandis and Lethocerus maximus, live in South America and can reach sizes exceeding ten centimeters.
Some species can reach up to 15 cm in length, have nocturnal habits and can fly, using the light of the full moon to migrate. From time to time, these insects bite humans. Despite their frightening appearance, scientists say they play a fundamental role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
